Wanderers were today mourning the death of assistant youth development officer Jimmy Dewsnip.

Mr Dewsnip was appointed by former Burnden manager Bruce Rioch as part time youth development officer almost three and a half years ago.

A retired headmaster, he is a senior FA coach who had 11 years on Liverpool's youth coaching and scouting staff.

He was director of Wanderers' Centre of Excellent for four years prior to his appointment as youth development officer.

He continued his work alongside former Bury manager Martin Dobson when the latter was appointed Wanderers' first ever full time YDO.

Youth team coach Dean Crombie paid tribute to 59-year-old Mr Dewsnip's work at Burnden Park.

"Everybody at the club is deeply sorry and shocked because we thought he had got through the worst of his illness," he said.

"I have worked with him ever since I came and he was always an integral part of the youth side.

"If you had a problem he had all the answers and he had so many contacts. He will be sadly missed and it will be extremely difficult to replace somebody with Jimmy's experience and knowhow."

Mr Dewsnip was back at work after a long illness and attended Saturday's 2-0 victory over Huddersfield Town at Burnden Park.

The funeral takes place at St Helens Crematorium on Monday at 2.30pm.

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