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Heartbreak as police confirm death of non league footballer

Heartbreak as police have had to confirm the death of non league footballer James Dean, with the non league world paying tribute.

Dean began his career with Great Harwood Town, making his debut for the club on the 8th of April 2003, alongside future Premier League player Matt Derbyshire, in a 2–0 win against Daisy Hill.

In the summer of 2006, Dean then signed for Clitheroe. Dean left Clitheroe in January 2007, signing for Northwich Victoria for a “four-figure fee”.

In the summer of 2007, Dean signed for Bury. During his time at the club, Dean made four EFL appearances. In February 2008, following loan spells at Altrincham and Stalybridge Celtic, Dean terminated his contract with Bury via mutual consent. Following his release from Bury, Dean rejoined Stalybridge Celtic until the end of the 2007–08 season.

Following his time at Stalybridge, Dean signed for Hyde United, before moving to Harrogate Town. In 2009, Dean joined FC Halifax Town, playing for the club for three years, before signing for AFC Fylde in 2012. In 2013, Dean joined Chorley, helping the club to promotion to the Conference North in his first season at the club. In March 2016, Dean joined Ashton United on loan from Chorley.

Following his time at Chorley, Dean signed for Warrington Town in May 2016.

Dean’s time at Warrington was short lived, with Dean joining Padiham on 1 September 2016.

In May 2017, Dean signed for Trafford, before returning to Padiham in June 2018. On 29 October 2019, Bamber Bridge announced the signing of Dean.

Lancashire Police tweeted: Police searching for a missing man have sadly found a body.

James Dean, 35, was last seen in the Orchard Drive area of Oswaldtwistle around midnight on Wednesday (May 5).

“Following extensive police enquiries a body was sadly found in the Moscow Mill Street area around 2.25pm today (Sunday, May 9).

“While the body has yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be Mr Dean. His family have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this time.

“The death is not being treated as suspicious and a post-mortem examination will take place in due course.

“We would like to thank everyone who assisted during the search for James.”

Two days ago, officers expressed extreme concern for the whereabouts of the much loved ex-Bury, Chorley, Altrincham, Halifax striker.

Police, his family, friends and former clubs and player are extremely worried for the 35-year-old man who was last seen at midnight on the 6th of May.

Officers in East Lancashire stated that James Dean, from Oswaldtwistle, who also has links to Accrington, Blackburn and Burnley, was last seen in the Orchard Drive area of the town.

He was described as wearing black tracksuit bottoms and a black tracksuit top, is white, 6ft 2ins, of a very slim build, has a shaved head and has tattoos.

PC Neil Wells said: “We are concerned for James’s welfare and I would ask anybody who sees him or has information on his whereabouts to get in contact with the police straight away.

“I would also ask James – if he sees this appeal – to get in touch to let us know you’re OK.”

James, who played for many clubs, but had been at Bamber Bridge more recently, has enjoyed a prolific career playing mostly at the highest non league levels and had several promotions to his name.

He scored 60 goals in 130 appearances for Chorley, the majority whilst in the Vanarama National League North.

The forward has also previously played for Bury, Altrincham, Harrogate Town, FC Halifax Town, Warrington Town, Ashton United, AFC Fylde and Stalybridge Celtic among his other former clubs.

For anyone who maybe struggling, remember you are not alone:

– Samaritans: 116 123
– Calm: 0800 58 58 58
– Anxiety UK: 03444 775 774
– Mind: 0300 123 3393
– Hopeline UK: 0800 068 4141

Fans reacted with heartbreak as police confirm the death of this fine non league footballer…

@SusanNugent2: Really upsetting news. My thoughts are with his family and friends. I had the pleasure of watching James play a number of times. RIP James Dean.

@garywigg072: Absolute shit news. Fellas reach out someone is always there to listen

@G_Kearney82: Such sad news… Sleep tight big man! #RIPJamesDean 🙏🏻😥

@heathrowsnowman: 116 123 Fellas talk!

@ando2409: So sorry to hear this. Played against him a couple of times but didn’t know him. Regardless, it’s such sad news! Thoughts are with his family, 2 kids and friends. It’s ok to not be ok! We just need to speak when and/if we need to. #RipDeano

@alison1010: That is very sad, indeed. 😢 RIP James Dean

@Dub0011: 35 is no age to die, check up on your loved ones. Mine have helped me more than they know, that’s for sure. Rest easy pal

@HermieLFC: We all need to reach out to those people who are going through a hard time. We know who they are. We can help. Talk to them. Research how you can support. You could be the person that helps. RIP James, too young.

@CrosenderWay: Awful news regarding James Dean. RIP. Our thoughts are with James’s family and friends right now.

@TheDB30: There’s no shame in admitting you’re struggling. People are always there to support and listen, even if you don’t believe it. Absolutely heartbreaking news. Thoughts really do go out to his family and friends.

@groundhopper85: Devastating news to hear of the death of james dean. Didn’t know him personally but seems like a great guy and well loved character. So much love for him this week on Twitter. So sad to hear. Rip Deano x

@mucky1986: So sad this, can tell how much respect everyone had for James Dean in the non league circuit.

@1874Craig: Incredibly sad news to learn the passing of James Dean, a true Non League great in the North West area who was loved & admired by so many people. It’s important for men to start opening up & start talking because you’re not alone & there are so many people out there who cares.

@donnaburnell: Absolutely awful news about James Dean. Please I urge anyone if you need to talk, talk. There’s loads of organisations who can help if you feel you cannot approach family or friends.
James Dean goal machine

@PaulAshurst8: This is so sad my thoughts are with his family and friends. Please reach out if you are struggling I’m always here for anyone you are not alone

@KeithBe63758343: RIP. Shocking news. Thoughts go to his friends and family.

@NXTGEN_coaching: Awful news. Thoughts with family and friends.

@shambo23: RIP James Dean – @FCHTOnline legend. #goalmachine

@TonyGreenall4: Oh no, that’s awful.

@Hirst_Matty: Such Sad news, RIP Deano

@BootleFCBucks: Heartbreaking news about James Dean. Our sincere condolences to his family, friends and former clubs. A brilliant footballer and formidable opponent over the years.

@LiamHenton: Gutted to hear about James Dean. Seems he was popular and well liked. RIP #JamesDean

@davefrecks: Terrible News. RIP.

@DaveMcdonald69: Absolutely devastating the news about James Dean, never got to see him play but his reputation goes before him as a real gent. RIP James, my thoughts are with your family

@SHAYMANJECS: RIP Deano. Town legend. Condolences to all his friends and family. Such a top guy. Gutted.

@GinnerWina: Just awful. Another young man lost. Love to his family, friends and former team mates.

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