Tribute to former Reading FC footballer

Rod Thornhill made more than 200 appearances for Reading FC

A football club have paid tribute to one of their former players.

Reading FC said it was "saddened" to hear of the death of Rod "Spider" Thornhill.

His son, Ian Thornhill, wrote on Facebook his dad had died after "battling with Alzheimer's".

He played in every position apart from goalkeeper and scored 23 goals, his son said.

Thornhill (top row, second from left) was pictured with Reading's first team squad in August 1968

The club said: "Rod was Reading born and bred, rising through the ranks by playing for our A and reserve teams before fulfilling his childhood dream of representing the first team.

"He made his debut in 1963 and went on to make 221 appearances for the club - including an impressive run of 83 consecutive matches.

"Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time."