The NI Football League is deeply saddened by the passing of Don Stirling of Ballymena United after a short illness.

Mr. Stirling was a popular and long serving club representative to the Irish League and NIFL.

As recognition for his years of service to football, he had been awarded the NI Football Writers' Merit Award in 2014.

NIFL Head of Marketing Neil Coleman stated, "This is a sad day for the whole Irish League football family. Don was universally liked and respected amongst clubs, players and media."

"The biggest complement I can give him is that he has almost always just been defined as a 'gentleman' throughout everyone in football circles. Our thoughts are with Don's family, friends and Ballymena United at this sad time."