Lady Hilkka Brooking, the wife of England and West Ham legend Sir Trevor Brooking, has passed away. The couple were married for 55 years.

“I want to thank people for their kind messages and thoughts,” Brooking said. “Hilkka loved coming to United matches and always wanted the club to do well.”

West Ham joint-chairman David Sullivan said: “We are all extremely sad to hear the news of Lady Hilkka’s passing. Hilkka was a hugely popular figure in the boardroom and throughout the club, always by Sir Trevor’s side and a passionate supporter of West Ham United. She will be greatly missed by everyone here.”

West Ham added in a statement: "Everyone at West Ham United has been deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Lady Hilkka Brooking, beloved wife of Club legend Sir Trevor.

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"Lady Hilkka, a regular visitor to West Ham United fixtures home and away, both when Sir Trevor was a player during his illustrious career and then by his side ever since in his role as a magnificent ambassador of English football, passed away having been ill for several months.

"The thoughts and condolences of everyone at West Ham United are with Sir Trevor, his daughter Collette and son Warren, as well as grandchildren Harry, Amy and Hugo, at this very sad time."

Brooking joined West Ham in 1965 and went on to make 649 appearances for the club, scoring 102 goals over an impressive 17-year spell. He helped the Hammers win two FA Cups, scoring only goal of the game against in the final in 1980.

The midfielder made 47 appearances for England, scoring five goals.

The 76-year-old, who has twice served as caretaker manager at West Ham, has been warded a knighthood, OBE and MBE for his services to football.

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