Ex-Bucks star Ian Crawley dies

Tributes have poured in for a former Telford United star who has died after a long battle with ill health.

Former Bucks favourite Ian Crawley died in Coventry yesterday, from Motor Neurone Disease, aged 46. He was diagnosed with the condition two years ago.

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His fight with the illness sparked a fundraising push supported by many Bucks fans who remembered his dramatic extra-time winner for Telford against Macclesfield in the FA Trophy final at Wembley in 1989.

Mr Crawley, known as Crow by his Telford team-mates, also played for Tamworth, VS Rugby and Kettering after starting his career with Nuneaton Borough.

He made 73 starts for Telford between 1988 and 1991. His father Tommy also played for the club in the 1960s.

Lee Carter, AFC Telford United chairman, said: "He was a very highly respected player here and I know fans contributed to his charity appeal, which demonstrates his popularity."

Former team-mate Ian Sankey said: "He was a big, strong striker in the Alan Shearer mould and scored lots of goals.

"He was somebody the younger players looked up to for help and advice."

A statement on the club's website today read: "The club have sent condolences to Ian's family and will wear black armbands during the game against Stratford Town on Saturday as a mark of respect."

Mr Carter said the first team's pre-season friendly clash at the New Bucks Head with Cheltenham on July 18 will be opened with a one-minute's silence as a mark of respect to Mr Crawley.

Ian Crawley with the 1989 FA Challenge Trophy Cup.

Ian Crawley was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease two years ago.

Ian Crawley was known as Crow by his Telford team-mates.

Ian Crawley also played for Nuneaton Borough, Tamworth, VS Rugby and Kettering.

Stan Storton's Telford lift the FA Trophy at Wembley in 1989 after a 1-0 win over old foes Macclesfield, with Ian Crawley scoring the winner in extra time.