RHYL Football Club have paid tribute to a former manager who died last weekend.

Terry Murphy collapsed during a Northwich Parkrun last weekend aged 79, leaving behind a lasting legacy throughout the regional from a footballing perspective and in his role as councillor.

Murphy was part of the Lilywhites’ set-up in the 1980’s as an assistant manager to John Williams and subsequently took over at the helm following his predecessor’s departure.

Rhyl's sporting director Dave Norman, said: “Terry was hugely instrumental in my early career and pathway in to professional football with Rhyl, Northwich Vic’s and Macclesfield Town.

“A football man through and through. A gentle giant who had time for everyone."

Murphy had spells as manager of Witton Albion, where he was most recently a scout, Northwich Victoria, Winsford United, Barnton, Middlewich Town and Lostock Gralam.

The Winnington resident was hugely supportive of the 1874 Northwich formation and boasted Football League experience as a player with Crewe Alexandra.

Murphy followed John King into the top job at Northwich Vics for the 1984-85 season, before Mike Pejic took over the reins.

In addition to his sporting exploits, Murphy also aided his community considerably in his role as Winnington and Castle Ward councillor.

Rhyl will honour their former manager prior to Friday night’s JD Cymru North encounter against Llangefni Town at the Educate Group Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 7.45pm.