A Norwich City fan award has been renamed in honour of a beloved superfan who died earlier this year.

Eastern Daily Press: Norwich City fan Michelle Dack and her partner Ian Mitton. Picture: SubmittedNorwich City fan Michelle Dack and her partner Ian Mitton. Picture: Submitted (Image: Archant)

Michelle Dack had been to 908 consecutive Norwich matches when she died after a battle with cancer in January.

The 52-year-old from Norwich was well known in the club community, and her death prompted an outpouring of tributes.

Now, the club has announced it will rename its fan of the season award in her honour, with it being known as the Michelle Dack Fan of the Season award from next season.

Ian Mitton, her partner of 17 years, described the change as 'incredible'.

'They had so many nominations in her name,' he said, 'and the club said they wanted to do something big for her.

'I was speechless - blown away. It's a real honour. She would be proud, I'm very proud. It's just such a great honour and a wonderful gesture.'

Mr Mitton will also present the award to this season's winner at City's home clash against Cardiff on April 14.

And he had wider praise for the Norwich City community, who he said had given him unwavering support since Michelle's death.

'Nothing makes what's happened easier, but it's very comforting,' he said. 'To have a message from someone on the other side of the country saying I'm doing well is wonderful.

'A lot of people will talk the club down, but there's a lot to be proud of.'

He said presenting the award was likely to be 'emotional', but a very special moment.

When announcing the news, Norwich City said Michelle 'epitomises everything the Fan of the Season award embodies'.

People on Twitter responded with overwhelming support for the decision.

One person said it was a 'brilliant tribute to a true fan', while another said it was a 'fantastic gesture'.

Another said: 'Great from the club showing huge respect to the fans - one reason why I'm proud to be an #ncfc fan!'

It comes as voting for this year's QD Fan of the Season, its current name, opens.

More than 250 nominations were received, with judges whittling them down to the final three.

MORE: 'Just mind-blowing' - partner of Norwich City fan praises support since her death

This season's finalists

• Lillian Kemp's love of Norwich City began when she relocated from Walthamstow to the fine city several decades ago.

Now 88, she is a passionate fan and is a regular at both home and away matches, which she attends with her great-grandchildren.

• Gary Moon suffered a farming accident last March, which left him with a broken neck and nerve damage to both arms.

One year on, and after three life-changing operations, he still attends home and away fixtures, despite being in constant pain.

• James Frost follows both the first team and under 23s and is a familiar face at matches. He suffers from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, which means he is a full-time powerchair user and depends on the help of others for personal care.

To vote, click here.