TRIBUTES have been paid to former Bolton Wanderers player Garry Jones following his death at the age of 65.

A spokesman for the club said they were "deeply saddened to announce the passing of former player Garry Jones".

Just last month, Wanderers old boys reunited at the Macron Stadium in support of the former star striker's cancer battle.

Club chaplain Phil Mason said: "It's very sad to hear of his passing.

"He played a very significant part in the history of Bolton Wanderers in the 1970s with all those appearances he made and the goals he scored.

"It was lovely to see him just a couple of weeks ago alongside a number of players from his era and, in spite of him clearly going through a difficult time illness-wise, he was still very positive and upbeat.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his children and all his family at this difficult time."

Jones made a total of 247 appearances for Wanderers, scoring 55 goals between 1968 and 1978.

His most notable moment in a Bolton shirt came in October 1971 when he hit the headlines after netting a hat-trick in a 3-0 League Cup victory over Manchester City in front of more than 42,000 spectators at Burnden Park.

Bolton Wanderers Supporters Trust said: "The BWFCST are saddened to hear of the passing of one on the great names of BWFC's recent past.

"Garry Jones was a wonderful servant to the club and his goal-scoring exploits will live long in the memories of some of the older fans.

"Everyone who was there at Burnden will remember his famous hat trick against Man City in 1971.

"On behalf of BWFCST, we extend our deepest sympathy to his family and friends at this sad time. RIP GJ."

Football fans took to social media to mourn the passing of the Whites great.

Glen Brooks said on Twitter: "Hat trick against City in '71 will live long in the memory. May he RIP."

Bijou Bob, posting on a fans' online forum, wrote: "Bless him, he was something of an idol for me.

"I once asked my hairdresser (yes, it was a long time ago) for a Garry Jones cut. RIP."

And on the same web discussion board, Bruce Rioja said: "Always thought he was underrated as a player.

"I remember him fondly from my first couple of years watching the Whites."

Jones played a key role in helping Bolton to the Third Division championship in the 1972/73 season and was also part of the side that narrowly missed out on promotion to Division One during the 1975/76 campaign.

The club's statement said: "The thoughts and condolences of everyone at Bolton Wanderers are with Garry’s family and friends at this difficult time."

It is understood Jones will be remembered at the next home game against Middlesbrough on April 16 when a tribute will be featured in the matchday programme and clips of the striker will be shown on the giant screens in the build-up to kick-off.