Kingstonian FC’s president John McCormack has passed away aged 78.

The club reported the news “with deep sadness” on its site yesterday.

In a statement: “John passed away peacefully in his sleep at home with his beloved and devoted wife Margaret at his side in the early hours of Tuesday morning, October 17.

“John McCormack was a true gentleman, a Kingstonian legend and a fine person.

“He will be greatly missed by everyone.”

Mr McCormack had been club president for the past four years, and an “outstanding forward” for the Kingstonian FC between 1961 and 1969, making 273 appearances and scoring 211 goals, putting him still third in the club's all-time goalscoring list.

The club added: “All at Kingstonian Football Club wish to send their sincerest condolences to Margaret, Catherine, Chrissie and Hamish, Claire, John and the whole family.”

A minute’s applause will be held in his honour before the game on Saturday with Wingate and Finchley.

People paid their respects on online forum The K’s in Point.

Vicky and Alan said: “Such sad sad news. John was a lovely man with time for all at Ks.

“Our condolences to Margaret and family. Wonderful people. Our hearts go out to you.”

Gerry Petit said: “Absolutely gutted, Johnny Mac was a true gentleman and a lovely man, I can remember seeing John play many times for K's, also having the pleasure to play with his brother Terry, a very sad time indeed, my condolences to his wife Margaret and family.”

Roger said: “John and his family would often spend part of the half with us in that small enclosed area near the KRE, we all agreed we were being honoured with the company of true K's Royalty, hence it became known as The Royal Enclosure.

“A smashing man to know and a superb player to watch.

“I am so sad to hear of his parting, my condolences to his family.”

Ian said: “All periods of silence at the ground are meaningful and poignant and I’m often touched even when I don’t know the person - but this man was a giant for this club and a true Son of Kingston.

“I was lucky enough to chat to him and some of the chaps I stand with were lucky enough to see him grace the hoops.

“He always attended the games with his lovely family with such passion and love.

“I am absolutely choked and will be again Saturday.

“We will miss him x.”

Details of Mr McCormack’s funeral will be published on the club's site as soon as they are known.