It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of former Arsenal winger, Alan Skirton.

Alan played on the wing for the Gunners from 1959 to 1966, when his pace and power earned him the nickname ‘The Highbury Express’. In all, the man from Bath - who went on to contribute greatly to the recent rise of Yeovil Town as their commercial manager - scored 54 goals for us in 154 appearances. That nickname, along with his induction into our prestigious 100 Club, gave Alan much pride.

In the 1961/1962 season, Alan was Arsenal's top scorer, with 19 Division 1 goals in 38 appearances.

Alan holds the admirable distinction of being the first Arsenal player to score a European goal at Highbury, and he was also the first Arsenal substitute to be called upon in a competitive fixture.

He was a huge personality who touched so many, and he will be sorely missed by his wife Jane, sons Andrew, Paul and Simon, and daughter Debbie.

He meant so much to his brothers Mick, Colin and Gordon and their families, his grandchildren and their families, and his great grandchild Tobias, who was recently welcomed into the Skirton family.

Alan will be remembered as a true gentleman and we will all miss him.

Funeral arrangements will be announced shortly for those wishing to pay their respects.