Altrincham Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former left-winger Ronnie Smith, who spent three memorable seasons at Moss Lane during a crucial era of transition for the club.

Born in Garston, Liverpool, on June 7, 1936, Ronnie began his football journey playing in the Liverpool Shipping League while working on the railways. Following his National Service with the King’s Regiment, he earned a trial at Stoke City before signing for Liverpool.

His professional Football League career gained real momentum when Don Walsh brought him to Third Division Bournemouth in 1959. Ronnie made his Football League debut against Reading in October 1959, establishing a reputation as a blistering wide man with exceptional ball control and pace.

In July 1961, Ronnie moved to Fourth Division Crewe Alexandra, quickly making the left-wing position his own. He played a key role in helping Crewe secure their first-ever promotion to the Third Division.

A successful stint at Port Vale followed in 1963 before former colleague Billy Bingham brought him to Southport in 1965. A firm fan favourite at Haig Avenue, Ronnie was an ever-present during Southport’s 1966/67 promotion-winning campaign.

In the summer of 1967, Ronnie arrived at Moss Lane at a pivotal moment. Altrincham were seeking fresh energy after back-to-back title wins, and Ronnie brought invaluable experience and quality to the flank. A classic, direct left-winger who possessed the rare ability to beat virtually any full-back in the lower divisions, Ronnie proved to be an integral figure in the squad.

During his three years with Altrincham, Ronnie helped the Robins transition smoothly from the Cheshire County League into the newly formed Northern Premier League in 1968.

Across his 119 appearances in all competitions for the club, he scored 18 goals - including 14 in the league. His time at Moss Lane yielded a impressive haul of silverware, earning a Cheshire County League runners-up medal, a Northern Premier League Cup winner’s medal, a Cheshire Senior Cup finalist’s medal, and both winner and runner-up medals in the North West Floodlit League.

After leaving Altrincham in 1970, Ronnie continued to showcase his enduring passion for the game with Netherfield (Kendal), Fleetwood Hesketh, and Formby, where he served three separate stints as a player and later stepped into the managerial hotseat. He continued playing well into his thirties before transitioning into management assistance at Hesketh Bank.

Ronnie will be remembered by Alty supporters of that era for his relentless pace, outstanding technical skill, and vital contributions during a transformative chapter in
the club’s history.

Everyone at Altrincham FC sends their sincere condolences to Ronnie’s family and
friends at this sad time.