Ray Charnley was Pool's top goalscorer for nine seasons, including five consecutive terms from 1958–59.

The 74-year-old died last week following a short illness and his funeral was held at Holy Trinity Church on Dean Street in South Shore yesterday.

Family and friends were joined by former players and club staff to honour the man who scored 222 goals in 407 appearances for the Seasiders.

Team mate Jimmy Armfield spoke of the privilege he felt at being considered one of Ray's close friends.

He told the packed church: "As you get older you learn to face upset, but I still have problems saying goodbye to friends, especially one of 52 years.

"He hadn't been well for a while, nevertheless losing him is hard to take.

"Somehow, this planet we share is less attractive when people like Ray Charnley leave.

"I remember a goal against Arsenal, it was two-all and he curled the ball into the left-hand corner of the goal. We won 3-2 at Highbury.

"When we got on the bus I told him I didn't know he had it in him. He said, "there's a lot you don't know about me".

"Jack Charlton once told me Ray was one of those players, when he jumps he never comes down."

Jimmy also paid tribute to Ray's wife of 51 years, Edna, who he described as "his rock".

For more pictures and tributes, see Wednesday's Gazette.