We pay tribute to Chester City’s record-holding footballer and renowned photographer, Gary Talbot

Gary Talbot was a man who needed little introduction. A formidable goal scorer, his name is one that would trip off the tongue of any self-respecting football fan. A Chester City legend, he scored one of the FA Cup's fastest hat-tricks and to this day holds the record as the club's second-highest Football League goal scorer.

Gary, who sadly recently lost his battle with lung cancer, aged 82, showed that, much like the sport, he had a career of two halves. While he played at Sealand Road, where there is a stand named after him, and he was a lifetime President, he was also pursuing what became an immensely successful career as a press photographer and captured images of some of the world's biggest stars, royalty and world leaders.

Lancashire-born Gary started his photography career at local daily, the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, near to his Blackburn birthplace, following his father into newspapers. He went on to work for the Daily Mail and ultimately set up his own photography business, winning many awards for his striking images. His photography allowed him to travel the world and during his career he photographed the likes of Princess Diana, Hollywood actors Jayne Mansfield and James Mason, the presidents of both India and Kenya and playwright Noel Coward, to name a few. Gary was also well-loved at Cheshire Life and his photography was a regular and welcome feature on the pages of this magazine. He was also club photographer for Everton Football Club.

Gary was adored by his family, including wife Christine. They lived together in Eccleston for the past 40 years where they were both, and Christine remains, popular members of the community and at the heart of its social scene.

'Life is going to be very different,' says wife Christine. 'After spending 57 years of your life with someone they become your life. I met him when I was 18. Gary was always a positive person and would want me to do the best to carry on. 'I will now spend more time travelling to see my children in Dubai and Australia. Hugs with grandchildren are one of the best pleasures in life. I also hope to start painting again, I love it.'

Gary is survived by Christine, his two children Annabel and Damian, and two grandchildren, Matilda and Maisie.

One thing we all know: our county has lost a man who was a proud Cestrian and a true gentleman.