The family of a football manager, who led Dalton United through their most successful era, have paid tribute to him after his death.

Derek Porter died on November 14 at the age of 87 which led to numerous messages from people in the community remembering the difference he made.

Mr Porter was the manager of the club's first team when they won the West Lancashire League First Division in back-to-back seasons in the 1983/84 and 1984/85 campaigns.

Derek Porter Jr, his son, said: "We would like to express how devastated we are to lose our dad.

"He was a fantastic father, grandfather, great grandad, father in-law and, most of all, a loving wife to Jane."

The Mail: Mr Porter pictured with the Dalton side he led to gloryMr Porter pictured with the Dalton side he led to glory (Image: Dalton United)

The period of success at Dalton under Mr Porter also came with a Richardson Cup win in 1982, as well as coming as runners-up in the same tournament two years later.

"My dad was a fantastic footballer and this was his love," said his son.

"He was just a fantastic man and well respected in the football family and will be sorely missed by many."

Managing Dalton came after a career for Mr Porter as a player at Barrow AFC and Wigan Athletic.

Following his departure from Dalton, he went on to manage at Holker old boys, Vickers FC , Askam United and even the Askam Sunday league team.

Graham Bickerstaff, who joined Dalton United as chairman in 1988, added that he rued the fact that the timing of his arrival meant that he narrowly missed out on working with Mr Porter.

"Even though Derek left the club before any of the current committee, players or managers joined, we all recognise the contribution he made towards the club's success at that time.

"His and others' efforts laid the foundations of the club and we'll be eternally grateful for that."

A service will be held at Thorncliffe Crematorium on Wednesday, 29 November at 11:30am.

Donations can be sent to St Mary's Hospice in Mr Porter's name.