CHRIS Turner last night paid tribute to Hartlepool United stalwart John Breward, who died in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Breward had a long affiliation with the club, working in the commercial department, forming a formidable double act with the late Frankie Baggs.

"I had the privilege of speaking with John hours before he died and I told him he'd always be in my thoughts," former manager Turner said, while a number of former Pools players saluted Breward on Twitter.

"He is one of the best people I have ever met in my life. John was so supportive in the early days and he introduced me to so many people in Hartlepool.

"I lived in Hartlepool and John was always welcome in my house. John was and always will be a legend in my eyes.''

A club statement said: "His friendly approach made him popular with club sponsors and staff, as well as the management and players - indeed he could often be found in the home changing room on matchdays delivering his own unique team talk to the squad.

"Everybody at Hartlepool United would like to pass on their condolences to all of his family and friends at this very sad time.''