Spartans mourning Toon star's passing

Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Blyth Spartans are planning to pay tribute to former midfielder Nigel Walker who passed away on Sunday.

The former Newcastle United star, pictured, was 54 when he lost a long battle with cancer at the weekend and officials say the Premier Division club will hold a minute’s applause before kick off against Witton Albion at Croft Park on Saturday.

Walker joined Spartans in 1987 while training to be a teacher and was at the club until 1992 following his five seasons at Newcastle and a career that also took in Crewe, Sunderland and Blackpool.

Spartans spokesman Mark Carruthers said: "Everyone at Blyth Spartans were shocked and saddened by the news and our thoughts are with Nigel’s family and friends. To mark Nigel’s passing and allow supporters to pay their respects the club will hold a minute’s applause prior to kick off.

"His presence on the pitch guaranteed quality, excitement and the unexpected. He was certainly one of the most technically gifted players to play for Blyth over the past fifty years."