Tributes pour in for much-loved non-league legend

Tributes have been pouring in for much-loved non-league footballer James Dean, who has sadly passed away aged 35.

The former Stalybridge Celtic, Hyde United and Ashton United striker leaves behind a partner and two sons.

Dean, who has been described as a gentle giant, played for a host of clubs including Clitheroe, Halifax Town, Chorley and Bamber Bridge.

The 6ft 2in forward was last seen in the Orchard Drive area of Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, at 11pm on May 5. Concerns about Dean's welfare began to grow and Lancashire Police issued an appeal on social media to help with their search. Tragically, five days after his last appearance, Lancashire Police released the following statement: 

Police searching for a missing man have sadly found a body. 

James Dean, 35, was last seen in the Orchard Drive area of Oswaldtwistle around midnight on Wednesday (May 5).

Following extensive police enquiries a body was sadly found in the Moscow Mill Street area around 2.25pm today (Sunday, May 9).

While the body has yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be Mr Dean. His family have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this time.

The death is not being treated as suspicious and a post-mortem examination will take place in due course.

We would like to thank everyone who assisted during the search for James.

Following the release of the statement, social media was awash with tributes to Dean with former Ashton team mate Martin Pilkington Tweeting the below: 

Meanwhile, Scottish mental health charity Back Onside Tweeted:

RIP James Dean 💔

Another life lost far too soon..please if you are struggling we are here to help and quickly. So pls send us a 🖤 if you don't know what to say & let us help you.

Help us reach every club & footballer, let them know we are here! PLEASE RT#backonside 🖤💛⚽️ pic.twitter.com/QtUyrFhUO9

— Back Onside (@BackOnside) May 9, 2021

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of former Celtic player James Dean.

Rest in peace, James 💙

— Stalybridge Celtic (@StalyCelticFC) May 9, 2021

In the wake of his death, a JustGiving page has been created in a bid to raise £10,000 to help support James' family. The page has already raised £5,825. Those wishing to contribute can do so via the following link: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/james-deane-2?utm_id=60&utm_term=JMJv7ynqk

Picture by Jez Style: Dean (left) with former Ashton team mate Martin Pilkington.