Everyone at Accrington Stanley Football Club is saddened to hear of the death of former manager Jimmy Hinksman.

A former player with the club in the 1950’s, he managed Accrington FC in the 1960’s before being appointed as the first manager of Accrington Stanley 1968, guiding the club to victory in their first game against Formby in 1970.

Under his guidance the “new” Reds won their first silverware by lifting the Lancashire Combination Challenge Cup in 1972 (pictured)

Two years later the club won a first Lancashire Combination title since 1955 and went on a 30 match unbeaten run before Mr. Hinksman resigned from his job in 1975.

Mr. Hinksman passed away yesterday. He was 80. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with his family at this difficult time.

There will be a minute’s silence at Saturday’s game with Plymouth to remember one of the key figures in the rebirth of Accrington Stanley and there will be a special tribute in the match day programme.