THE founder of Clevelands Preparatory School, who was also a fomer director of Bolton Wanderers, has died at the age of 84.

Jack Lightbown, who founded the independent school in Chorley New Road, Bolton, in 1964, died at his home in Lytham St Annes.

Mr Lightbown was also the first head of the school and lived on the premises.

Paying tribute to him, the present headteacher, Glynis Mitchel, said: "He had a vision of creating a school that was built on delivering a traditional education, good manners and respect and where there was a strong work ethic to enable pupils to be successful in their chosen path."

Mr Lightbown, who was born in Darwen, was a flight navigator and then lieutenant with the RAF during the Second World War.

A keen sportsman, he was an accomplished cricketer and was a former captain of Darwen cricket club.

He was also a keen Bolton Wanderers fan and held the position of director of the club for six years from 1976. He became a vice-president in 1982 and held that position until his death.

Mr Lightbown was regular visitor to the Reebok Stadium until his recent illness.

His funeral takes place on Thursday, October 12 at 1.45pm at Overdale East Chapel.