Former footballer Stan Bowles dies aged 75 after Alzheimer's battle

Former Manchester City and QPR footballer Stan Bowles has passed away at 75 after a long fight with Alzheimer's disease.

Stan, who was born in Collyhurst, began his football journey as a young player at Manchester City where he made 17 appearances. After leaving the club in 1970 he went on to play for teams including Bury, Crew and Carlisle before joining QPR where he became a club legend.

At QPR he played 315 league games and scored 97 times in seven years and was key in the season the club nearly won the top league in 1975-76.

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Regarded as one of England’s top talents as well as a maverick, Stan moved to Nottingham Forest under Brian Clough in 1979, but just a year later joined Second Division Leyton Orient.

Despite his talents, Stan won just five England caps, his only international goal coming against Wales at Ninian Park in 1974.

After retiring from football in 1984 Stan began a career in after-dinner speaking, punditry, and writing a betting column. His autobiography, published in 1996, revealed his struggles with drinking, womanising, and gambling during his playing days.

When he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, Bowles moved back to Manchester where his eldest daughter, Andria, took care of him.

In 2017, QPR held a special match against Bournemouth in honour of Stan, with the aim of raising money for his ongoing care.

QPR said in a club statement: “It is with a heavy heart we have learned that QPR icon Stan Bowles sadly passed away this evening (Saturday), aged 75.

“All our thoughts are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. May he rest in peace.

“The club will be confirming how we will be paying a fitting tribute to Stan