ALTRINCHAM chairman Grahame Rowley has paid tribute to lifelong fan Jack Thorpe, who has died at the age of 98.

Former Altrincham groundsman Jack was believed to the Robins’ oldest fan.

Jack was the club’s groundman for 23 years until his retirement in 1996.

His devotion to Altrincham was a family affair that stretches back more than 100 years. Jack’s father, also Jack, played for Alty, making his debut in the last fixture of the 1906/07 season in a 2-2 draw, away at Salford City.

His grandson. David, runs the souvenir shop.

Mr Rowley said: “He is a legend at the club and made an amazing impact over the years.

“I have nothing but praise for the contribution he made to the club.”