Everyone at The J.Davidson Stadium is saddened to learn that former Altrincham defender and widely-respected broadcaster Gerry Harrison has died at the age of 89.

Gerry, who was known as the voice of East Anglian sport for the way he fronted ITV's coverage of the region's football in the 70s and 80s, joined the Robins in 1962 as a versatile defender who could operate at centre-half or full-back.

After a couple of training sessions and an outing for the Reserves against Manchester University, he was soon promoted to the first team by manager Charlie Mitten, where he made a winning start in an Alty line-up that included ex-England full-back Tommy Banks.

He continued to feature for the Robins when Freddie Pye took over as manager, though it became increasingly difficult to juggle Alty commitments with a flourishing career in journalism as a news reporter for the Daily Express.

It was when he switched from print media to broadcasting that he became a familiar face and name throughout the country, particularly in East Anglia where, for over two decades, he was ITV's lead commentator, describing all the action throughout the region, whether it be Bobby Robson's successful Ipswich Town team or their fierce local rivals Norwich City or even the likes of Cambridge United, Luton Town, Peterborough United, Northampton Town, Colchester United and Southend United.

As well as club football, he also reported on seven World Cups, starting in Mexico in 1970.

The club would like to send our sincere condolences to Gerry's family and friends at this sad time.