Potters' legend passes away

John Ritchie, Stoke City's top goal scorer of all time, has passed away at the age of 65.

The legendary striker scored 171 goals for the Potters in 343 appearances in two periods for the club between 1962 and 1975 - an astonishing average of a goal every two games.

He was signed by Tony Waddington from Kettering Town in June 1962 for just £2,500 without the Potters' manager even seeing him play. But was surprising sold to Sheffield Wednesday in 1966 but bought back by Waddington in 1969. He was an integral part of the great Stoke side of the early 1970's which culminated in two FA Cup semi final appearances and winning the League Cup.

After a brief stint at Stafford Rangers he retired from football in 1976 setting up a pottery distribution business within half a mile of the Victoria Ground and was also a keen golfer, playing at Wolstanton Golf Club for many years.

Sadly, recent times have seen him suffering from Alzheimer's and Vital Stoke passes on its condolences to his wife and family.

He will be sorely missed.

Stoke City are planning to have a minute's silence before the start of the home game against Barnsley on Monday night.

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