News has reached Kenilworth Road of the sad passing of Jake Findlay, the larger than life goalkeeper who starred as the Town won the Division Two (now Championship) title in 1982.

Born as John Williamson Findlay in Blairgowrie, Scotland he acquired the nickname ‘Jake’ at school where he took part in trials for both the Scottish Schools and Youth sides

Aston Villa manager Tommy Docherty fought off a shoal of clubs to sign Jake as a 15-year-old, but although he starred in the Villans' 1972 Youth Cup triumph he found it difficult to displace Jim Cumbes and Jimmy Rimmer as first team goalkeeper.

It took a lot of pestering by Luton manager David Pleat though, to get Villa to release Jake to replace Milija Aleksic in 1979, but once he came to Kenilworth Road he became a terrace favourite and starred as the Hatters won promotion to Division One in 1982.

An incredibly brave keeper who was never afraid to throw his body at opposing forwards, it was a badly broken thumb that effectively ended his Luton career, as by the time he was fit, the Town had signed Les Sealey and after a brief spell at Swindon, he hung up his gloves.

Jake turned to running a successful driving school in Sutton Coldfield and had often been seen back at Kenilworth Road where he was always good company.

Our condolences go out to all his family and friends.

Words: Roger Wash

Main picture: Jake in match action against Watford at Kenilworth Road in December 1982.