A leading Alzheimer's disease charity has paid tribute to Carlisle United legend Stan Bowles following the sad news of his death.

Alzheimer's Research UK described the football star as a "hero" and said work must continue to find a cure to the devastating disease.

Bowles suffered from Alzheimer's in his final years before his passing at 75.

Hilary Evans, chief executive of Alzheimer's Research UK, said: "Our thoughts are with Stan Bowles’s family following the tragic news that he has died from Alzheimer’s disease.

"Stan was a hero and so many of us have great memories from his impressive career on the pitch.

"He will be greatly missed, and we send his family and those who loved him our sympathies.

“It’s absolutely devastating that Stan’s final years were ruled by Alzheimer’s disease, but unfortunately this is the case for many people in the UK today.

“At Alzheimer's Research UK, we are determined to change the ending for everyone affected by dementia-causing diseases by finding a cure.

"The awful news about Stan highlights that we don’t have a moment to waste.”

Bowles, one of the most talented players ever to play for Carlisle, died peacefully, his family said.

“Sad to be writing this but dad has passed away," wrote his daughter Tracey Bowles in a Facebook post. “He was with all the family and went peacefully. God bless you Stanley.”

Bowles played for Carlisle from 1971 to 1972 and starred in Division Two for the Blues, and also in United's famous 3-2 Anglo-Italian Cup victory against Roma.

He went on to play for QPR and is recognised as one of the club's finest players of all-time, with a stand named after him at Loftus Road.

He also played for Crewe Alexandra, Manchester City, Bury, Nottingham Forest, Leyton Orient and Brentford, and won five England caps.

United's chairman emeritus, Andrew Jenkins said: "Stan was a great character. He had a great time here at Brunton Park. 

"As soon as you saw him play you knew he was going to be a fantastic signing. He did so well for us that he got noticed by QPR and went on to have a great career with them. 

"David Dent was secretary at the time and we both have great memories of him as a player and as a person.

"This is really sad news and we pass our best wishes onto his family and friends from everyone at the club." 

Carlisle's supporters' trust CUOSC also paid tribute, writing: "The thoughts of all at CUOSC, and the wider Carlisle support, are with both the family and friends of Stan Bowles, and all at QPR."

Anyone who needs need advice or support on living with Alzheimer's or dementia can also contact Dementia UK’s Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline on 0800 888 6678 or email helpline@dementiauk.org.

The Helpline is staffed by experienced Admiral Nurses. You can also book a free video or phone appointment to get expert dementia support from an Admiral Nurse. Find out more at dementiauk.org/book-an-appointment.