IT is with sadness that we report the death last night of Hammers legend John Bond, who has lost his three-year battle with cancer at the age of 79.

'Bondy' made 428 senior appearances (381 league and 47 cups) for the Hammers, scoring 35 goals.

Born at Stanway in Essex, he joined West Ham as a schoolboy in March 1950 and was a member of the 1958 second division championship-winning side.

A solid right-back with a hefty kick, 'Muffin' also won an FA Cup winners' medal in 1964.

John left the Hammers in 1966 to finish his playing career with Torquay United before embarking on a largely successful managerial career that took in AFC Bournemouth, Norwich City, Manchester City, Burnley, Swansea City, Birmingham City and Shrewsbury Town.

EX was privileged to interview John, in-depth, at his Cheshire home a year ago (issue 60). A full tribute will appear in our next issue which goes on sale in early October.
We send sincere condolences to his wife Janet, daughter Toni and son Kevin.