Former team-mates are paying tribute to title-winning 1970s Runcorn AFC footballer Steve Hipwell, who has died aged 63 after a three-year fight with Motor Neurone Disease.

Steve was part of the Linnets team which defeated Wigan Athletic on the final night of the 1975-76 season to clinch the first of the club's two Northern Premier League championships.

A minute's silence was held by successor club Runcorn Linnets before their FA Cup victory over Pontefract Collieries on Saturday. Ex-colleagues have been quick to remember Steve as a talented footballer, genuine person and great friend.

Derek Baker played at right back alongside right-sided midfield player Steve in the team which also won the NPL Challenge Cup the season before their championship success. He is now a regular home and away supporter of the "new" Linnets.

Derek said: "Steve was a playing partner in the mid-seventies who was an integral part of Stan Storton's league and cup winning squad.

"He was excellent in the air and really skilful on the ground, he kept himself fit and was still playing five a side up until his early sixties.

"I will always remember Steve as a great lad and if anyone knew him, they would understand why he will be sadly missed.

"So sorry for his family as I know what they must be going through. Goodbye Steve - a great footballer, a nice lad and a really good friend. I know you will be in the first team wherever you are."

Steve Hipwell joined Runcorn from Hillingdon Borough after serving his footballing apprenticeship at Chelsea.

He also figured in three Cheshire Senior Cup finals, winning two - the only major honour eluding the Linnets around that time being the FA Trophy after deep disappointment in semi-finals.

Tim Rutter, who played at left back in the team, said: "If I had £1 for every match report I read that mentioned '...another goal scored by Steve Hipwell who ghosted in at the far post...' I would be rich!

"Steve scored lots of goal for us by sneaking in, unseen, for another 'tap in' that he made look so easy. Scoring like that game after game was no mean feat when you are well over 6 feet tall and defenders are looking out for you! Steve wasn't just a goal scorer though for Runcorn, he was a really clever, hard-working and very skilful footballer.

As well as a great team player on the pitch Steve was a genuinely good man off the pitch too. Nothing was too much trouble for him. Just a top man, who will be sadly missed by all who knew him."

Graham Millward, former Runcorn AFC vice-chairman, said: "Such sad news to hear of Steve's passing. He really was a quality player, who started his career at a much higher level and, I am sure, with a bit of luck and being in the right place at the right time, could have played his whole career in League football.

"I think that amyone who ever met Steve will testify to the fact that he was a genuine nice guy. Whenever I think of Steve I picture him rising to head a superb back-post headed goal at the bottom end (of) Canal Street. "RIP Steve; you left us with great memories. Thinking of his family."