Ex-Hatter Alan Clarke passes away

Former Town forward Alan Clarke has sadly died at the age of 78.

The Luton-born attacker featured 10 times for his hometown club, making his debut in a 2-0 Division Two win over Walsall on April 11, 1962, while also featuring for Dunstable Town following his release from Kenilworth Road.

A statement on the club's official website said: "Local boy Alan shone as a schoolboy, winning County youth honours, and signed on as an amateur for the Town straight from school before agreeing to semi-professional terms in October 1961.

"Initially a tough tackling wing-half he was moved up the forward line and played five games on the right wing at the back end of the 1961-62 season and acquitted himself well.

"One of the games he played in was the infamous home clash with Leyton Orient when England international goalkeeper Ron Baynham was tried up front.

"After four appearance the following season, Alan was released along with a lot of other players as the Town were relegated from Division Two (now the Championship).

"Alan then signed for Dunstable Town where he gained the distinction of becoming the first ever scorer in a Sunday professional match when netting at Wisbech in March 1967.

"Alan also played cricket with distinction for Dunstable.

"Our condolences go out to all his family and friends.