A shot-stopper who was almost ever-present in Watford football club’s first ever football league promotion has died at the age of 87.

James ‘Jimmy’ Linton, who starred in the Hornets’ memorable 1959/60 season, died on November 7 after a long battle with dementia.

Mr Linton played in 43 of the 46 matches during the promotion-winning season, missing three because of a finger injury.

He stayed at Vicarage Road until 1963 before moving on into non-league football. He finished his career at Hatfield Town.

In total, he made 88 appearances for the club, having joined from Notts County where he had been for eight years.

After his retirement, Mr Linton worked as a self-employed carpenter, staying in the Watford area. He lived in Bushey Heath for 56 years.

He leaves behind his wife Kay, daughters Kim and Hayley, and four grandchildren. His family say that he will be “sadly missed”.