Fred Story has paid a heartfelt tribute to Andrew Jenkins following the long-serving former Carlisle United owner and chairman's death.

Mr Jenkins' passing has brought an immense amount of tributes from across the United family.

And Mr Story, who owned the Blues from 2004 to 2008, said the club has lost its truest friend.

The businessman described his former Brunton Park boardroom colleague as "a lovely man and a true gentleman."

Speaking to the News & Star, he added: "Carlisle United will never have a greater servant than Andrew, and he was respected throughout the football world for all the right reasons.

"It was a pleasure to work with him, and he will be a great miss to everyone who knew him, and to his great love, Carlisle United."

Jenkins, centre, was chairman during the four-year ownership of Story, rightJenkins, centre, was chairman during the four-year ownership of Story, right (Image: News & Star)

The Blues announced Mr Jenkins' death yesterday, saying all at the club were devastated.

ANDREW JENKINS - 1936 to 2024

"There simply aren’t enough words to explain the impact Andrew had on this football club over his 64-year association," said the club in a statement, adding that the Pioneer Foodservice businessman had been an "immensely loyal" figure to the club since he first joined the board in 1959.

United have added that supporters are welcome to lay flowers in memory of Mr Jenkins in the memory garden at Brunton Park, which is situation behind the East Stand, which is named after the former club owner.

The Cumbrians are keeping their media channels silent until Friday as a mark of respect to Mr Jenkins.