WANDERERS chairman Sharon Brittan has led the tributes to Karen Jones, the mother of defender Gethin Jones, who has lost her battle with Motor Neurone Disease.

It was announced last night that the 56-year-old former midwife had passed away, leaving behind a husband and three children.

Karen had been underdoing treatment and a drug trial in the US as part of her battle with MND.

Wanderers fans helped raised money towards her treatment with a charity dinner and game in October, which also contributed funds to the Darby Rimmer Foundation, set up by former Bolton full-back, Stephen Darby, who is also fighting the disease.

“I was deeply saddened to learn that Karen passed away on Sunday,” Brittan said in a club statement.

“Whilst I only knew her for a short time, she touched my soul and was clearly the heartbeat of her beautiful family.

“Karen was a wonderful mother to her amazing children whom she adored, loving wife and loyal friend to all who knew her.

“Our heartfelt sympathies go to Gareth, Gethin, Dylan, Ela and all the family. May God look after her and she rest in eternal peace.”

The Bolton News:

Ian Evatt echoed the thoughts of his chairman, and said Gethin Jones would be given all the support he needs from staff and team-mates at the club.

“Our thoughts are with Gethin and his family at this desperately sad time,” he said.

“Spending time with Karen last year, her bravery and courage stood out as an example to us all.

“All of her family are a credit to her and in Gethin, we are lucky to have such a fantastic person and player representing our football club.

“Myself, staff and his team-mates will continue to give him our total support as such a respected and valued member of the squad.”

The Bolton News:

A club statement added: “The thoughts of everyone at Bolton Wanderers are with Gareth, Gethin, Dylan and Ela as we remember Karen.”

The football fraternity also voiced their support to Jones on social media last night.