A LEGENDARY former Workington Red has been remembered for his contribution to Borough Park’s golden era.

Jack Bertolini, former Workington AFC and Stirling Albion player died aged 87 on Monday and tributes have poured in to the football great.

Jack, known as Jackie was born in Alloa, Scotland and was of Italian descent.

He played a key role in the history of Sterling Albion but is remembered locally as one of the Workington Reds players that faced off with Manchester United in 1958.

The FA Cup third-round tie against Matt Busby’s iconic “Busby Babes” is the most famous clash in Workington AFC history.

Current director and lifelong Reds fan Howard Bouch, 75, was in attendance on the day.

He said: “I went to the Manchester United match in 1958, I started watching Reds just before then and I’ve been a supporter for Reds for 50/60 years.

“My first ever game was against Carlisle United, I first saw them when I was about 11.

“I do remember him but not clearly, he was a member of the team that played Manchester United, I was only 13 then.”

Howard recalled the thrilling moment that Reds scored against United in the first half.

“It was a hell of a crowd, it was an exciting day.”

The extraordinary clash was one of 194 league and cup games played by Jack at Reds before he made a move to Brighton and played 279 games there.

Jack was first signed by Reds boss Ted Smith in 1953 making his debut for Workington at home versus Oldham Athletic.

His first goal for Reds was scored a week later against Tranmere Rovers.

Jack was playing at Reds during icon Bill Shankly’s tenure as manager.

The legendary Shankly was in charge at Workington during one of its golden eras and also led fellow Reds Liverpool FC.

Jack ultimately settled in Brighton with his family and had a notable career with the Seagulls.

He worked in the office there after his playing career was ended by a knee injury. Jack was also manager at semi-pro club Whitehawk FC for a short stint.

Jack was diagnosed with dementia eight years ago and suffered from ill health ever since and his final years were spent in Worthing care home but he died peacefully with son Steven and daughter Tracy by his side and will be remembered by contemporaries for his heyday on the field.