ICM Stellar Sports are deeply saddened to share news of the death of football scout and educator Les Clitheroe.

In a relationship with ICM Stellar spanning more than 20 years, Les discovered and mentored scores of young players, many of whom went on to have careers at the highest levels.

Les took great pride in his work as an educator but will be remembered for his unquenchable passion for football. Despite suffering from Ill-health over the last year or so of his life, he continued to monitor games right up until his death, aged 71.

Paying tribute to Les, ICM Stellar Sports Executive Chairman Jonathan Barnett said: “Les was a one of a kind character: hard working, loyal, and above all had an incredible eye for talent that could not be overlooked.

“Coming from an education background, Les continued to teach many of the players he had brought to Stellar and helped lead them into successful footballing careers, something he and everyone at ICM Stellar Sports can be very proud of.

“I can truly say that it was a privilege to have known him and to have worked with him over the last 20 years. He is a great loss to Stellar and his legacy will not be forgotten. Les will always be part of the Stellar family, and our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Andrea, and their family.”