Northumberland man who won football league title with Burnley dies aged 82

John Angus died peacefully at home on Tuesday.

He spent his entire playing career at Turf Moor and was the club’s record outfield appearance holder, playing 521 times for the Clarets between 1956 and 1972.

A right back, he missed just one game in helping them win the 1959-60 First Division title.

They were runners-up in the 1961-62 season, when they also reached the FA Cup final.

He played just once for England, in a 3-1 defeat by Austria in 1961.

In a statement, Burnley FC said: ‘Burnley Football Cub is deeply saddened to learn of the death of legendary defender John Angus.

"One of the most accomplished and unflappable defenders in the club’s rich history, Angus was unfortunate to only win the one full England cap, largely due to the form of Blackpool rival Jimmy Armfield.

"The thoughts of all at Turf Moor are today with his widow, Florence, daughters Jill, Judith and Karen and families, and grandchildren Lottie and Cameron.”

After retirement, John returned to Amble where he and Florence ran a series of businesses including JK Crafts on Queen Street and John worked as a locksmith in the prison.

In later years he enjoyed hill walking, photography and golf.

In an interview with The Ambler in 2012, he recalled a football career which started with Amble Boys’ Football Club, Amble Town and Alnwick Town before he was spotted by scouts. He signed for Burnley in 1954 and combined training with an apprenticeship in joinery.

He made his debut in a 2-1 win against Everton the day after his 18th birthday in September 1956.

He also recalled how he started on £9 per week with a £2 win bonus and £1 for a draw. Top pay for all footballers was £15 per week.

"I enjoyed every minute, playing against the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool,” he said.

“And of course I remember matches at Newcastle, against Bobby Michell, Jimmy Scoular and Jackie Milburn. As a young kid, you used to dream about playing them. My family and friends came to see me although they cheered for Newcastle first!”

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