THE footballer who played the most first team matches for Hereford United, John Layton, has died at the age of 75.

The full-back made a record number of 549 appearances for the club in their Southern League days when, as a part-time professional, his main occupation was in the timber trade.

This earned him the nickname "Timber" but it could equally apply to his style as a footballer as he was a strong, uncompromising defender with a reputation for never needing treatment from a trainer on the pitch.

Lack of injuries no doubt played a large part in his record of appearances for the club and in the early 1950s he went four seasons without missing a match, making 234 consecutive appearances.

Although the name Layton is synonymous with Hereford United, he had a brief spell with then arch rivals Worcester City before returning to Edgar Street where he served with distinction as a player from 1946-48 and 1950-64.

Born in Leintwardine, John was a product of local football and started out with Hereford Lads Club and Allensmore before progressing to the Southern League where he was known as a tough but fair player.

He played in all 62 matches of United's busy season in 1952-53. That was when floodlights were installed at Edgar Street and Hereford first appeared on television when the BBC broadcast the FA Cup fourth qualifying round match at Athenian League side Leyton. It ended in a goalless draw but United won the replay and then held Third Division Scunthorpe to another 0-0 draw before losing the replay 2-1.

The following season John helped United knock out another league club, Exeter City, of the Third Division, in the first round. Hereford drew 1-1 at Exeter and won the replay 2-0. He was also with United when they beat Third Division Aldershot in the cup in 1956-57.

When his playing career drew to a close, John, who lived in Hereford, had a spell as reserve team manager at Edgar Street and always maintained his interest in the club and football.

Peter Isaac, who was goalkeeper in the team with John for several seasons, said: "He always gave 100 per cent as a player and was a good club man. He was hard, but never dirty, and had a wonderful playing record for Hereford United. There was no edge to him and he was a great family man."

Roger Griffiths, a member of United's famous Giantkillers team, was inspired as a schoolboy by watching John Layton in action. He said: "I first met John as a 17-year-old when I was invited to play for the reserves. John was in the team as he was coming towards the end of his outstanding career.

"I am very proud of the fact that I went on to play for the United for 10 years wearing the number two shirt he had donned. It was a privilege to have known him and I thank him for his kindness and guidance in those very influential early years."

John leaves a widow, Sylvia, son, John, who also played with distinction for Hereford United, and daughter, Janet.

A minute's silence was observed at Hereford's home match with Boston on Saturday.