Minute's applause for Nelson Mandela

A minute’s applause took place at fixtures across the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League on Saturday as millions of people in South Africa and around the world mourn the death of Nelson Mandela.

An inspiration to millions with his message of peace and reconciliation after spending 27 years behind bars, the Nobel Prize winner and first black President of South Africa led the transition from white minority rule in his homeland and passed away on Thursday aged 95.

Tributes continue to take place at sporting events and football matches around the world. The Premier League's clubs all staged a minute's applause and the Football Association and Football League also asked clubs taking part in their respective competitions to do the same before matches this weekend.

Evo-Stik NPL fixtures known to have seen tributes included those hosted by Bamber Bridge, Blyth Spartans, Chorley, Farsley AFC, Ilkeston FC, King's Lynn Town, Ossett Town, Romulus, Scarborough Athletic, Sheffield FC, Skelmersdale United and Warrington Town.

The Evo-Stik NPL welcomed the participation of its clubs and in a statement said: "On behalf of its fans, players and officials, the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League's Chairman, Directors and Officers send their condolences to their footballing counterparts in South Africa and the family and friends of the late statesman who brought freedom to millions."