Former Clarets boss Joe Brown dies

Mr Brown (85) managed Burnley between January 1976 and June 1977 in a caretaker role following the resignation of club legend Jimmy Adamson.

When he ended his brief spell at Turf Moor, he had a variety of jobs in football and was latterly youth development officer at Old Trafford, overseeing the emergence of many future United stars.

Mr Brown lived for many years at Pasturegate in Burnley but moved to Healey Lodge Nursing Home in the town several years ago. His wife of many years Constance died two years ago.

The couple’s son Martin said: “Dad’s big passion was obviously football, but away from the game he was a committed Christian. Everyone loved him.”