Macclesfield Town Football Club is mourning the loss of two loyal supporters who died within days of each other.

Deborah Lynch and Jean Wilkinson are both described by The Silkmen as 'much-loved and devoted supporters'.

The club's media manager Bob Trafford said: "Deborah was a wonderful and highly-respected member of our club, who would consistently go above and beyond in order to help Macclesfield Town FC in a whole variety of ways.

"A genuinely lovely person with an absolute heart of gold, Deborah helped to write, produce and print the matchday programme during the early 1980s - together with her loyal husband Peter.

"Back in those days, this was no mean feat as the magazine needed every word typing out and after they had been printed, the arduous task of folding and stapling began in earnest.

"And yet, all this was done so wilfully and with a beaming smile which rendered even the most mundane task as something to savour."

The club was 'heartbroken' to learn of Jean Wilkinson's death shortly after Mrs Lynch's passing last week.

"Jean epitomised everything which is great about our club.

"With her infectious personality and unwavering passion for the club, Jean undeniably helped to inspire generations of Macc fans.

"An absolute stalwart for so many years, Jean's legacy will live on in so many people's hearts and minds forevermore," added Bob.

Although both Deborah and Jean will be sorely missed, Bob said the club will hold onto the cherished memories of both women.

"We would like to express our most heartfelt condolence to both Deborah and Jean's family and friends at this extremely difficult time," he added.