Carlisle United lead tributes as former footballer Tony Hopper dies at 42 after battle with MND

CARLISLE UNITED have paid tribute to club hero Tony Hopper who has passed away aged 42 after battling Motor Neurone Disease.

The League Two side wrote: “There simply are no words. Sleep well dear friend. Thoughts with Sue, the boys, family and friends at this very sad time. Tony - thank you for the memories xx”

The father of three passed away at the Eden Valley Hospice in Carlisle and his family released a statement to the News and Star newspaper that read: “Tony Hopper has lost his short fight against motor neurone disease.

"He passed away surrounded by his family at Eden Valley Hospice on October 9, 2018.

"Sue [Tony's wife] and the boys - Daniel, 11, Adam, nine and Jack, five - would like to thank everyone who contributed to the 'Hoppy Memories' fund which enabled them to make many happy memories together.

"The support from the whole community has been overwhelming since Tony's diagnosis in January 2017."

Former colleague and ex-player David McCreery added to the outpouring of support for the Hopper family, saying: “He was a shining light as a player and a person when I worked with him @officialcufc.

“Proud to have known such a warm hearted person. RIP Tony Hopper my thoughts are with the family at this awful time. #hoppy

Workington AFC, where Hopper played for a decade, also paid tribute to their former player, saying: “It is with great sadness that the club learned of the passing of former Carlisle United and Reds' legend Tony Hopper last night.

“Tony Hopper, 42, tragically died from Motor Neurones Disease.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends on their sad loss.”

The tragic news comes weeks after former Bolton and Liverpool defender Stephen Darby announced he was having to retire to fight the disease.

And in 2013, Glasgow Rangers hero Fernando Ricksen revealed he was terminally ill with the same illness.