Tributes and heartfelt messages about Duncan Forbes have come flooding in, following the sad news that the legendary Norwich City player has passed away at the age of 78.












City's former captain had been in a care home in Heartsease, Norwich, since 2013, receiving support for Alzheimer's disease. He passed away on Wednesday evening, surrounded by his family.

Forbes made 357 appearances for the Canaries, scoring 12 goals, but notched up a total of 33 years with the club - working with the commercial staff where he was in charge of Club Canary, organising trips to away matches. In 1988 he became chief scout, a post he held until his retirement in 2001.

The Scot was named Player of the Season in 1970 and captained City to the old Second Division title and promotion to the top flight the first time in 1972. He was also skipper in the League Cup final defeats of 1973 and 1975.

MORE: Delia and Michael pay tribute to Canaries legend Forbes

Social media has seen Canaries supporters of all generations paying tribute to the legendary defender this afternoon, while we have also been sent email tributes, which can be read below.

Eastern Daily Press: Norwich City legend Duncan Forbes with former team-mate and good friend Dave Stringer in October 1996 Picture: Archant LibraryNorwich City legend Duncan Forbes with former team-mate and good friend Dave Stringer in October 1996 Picture: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

Andrew Brazaell

Duncan was an outstanding representative and servant of Norwich City Football Club. In the 1970s he came to live just down the road from my mother's house and I was absolutely thrilled; he was accessible and friendly with all in the local area and wore his football fame lightly. His character and bravery on and off the field of play were second to none. The word 'legend' is a cliche oft used in football but in the case of Duncan S Forbes absolutely fitting.

Peter Meades

How very sad to hear of Duncan's passing. I will always recall and cherish the sight of Duncan emerging from the players' tunnel before every City match with his customary sleeves rolled-up ready for the fray.

And after his retirement how he gave so much back to us fans. His leadership of Club Canary in the early 1980s was legendary. Away trips to places like Blackburn and Cardiff with probably just two coaches of City supporters in those days but Big Dunc would be there ensuring none of us stepped out of line, and at the pub stop on the way home, Duncan would have a queue of City fans all ready to buy the legend a drink! Sleep well Dunc, and rest in peace.

Eastern Daily Press: Duncan Forbes enjoying success in front of fans at City Hall Picture: Archant LibraryDuncan Forbes enjoying success in front of fans at City Hall Picture: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

Peter Whittaker (supporter of 60 years)

What a lion heart. Simply the most commanding defender, no-one could beat him. Led us in our greatest ever season. Treasured memories of our captain will always live on for all who watched that great promotion year.

Tracey Rix

To a true gentlemen I used to know and will always be in heart and in my soul: rest in peace you big softy and have a great game of football in heaven! God bless you.

Eastern Daily Press: Duncan Forbes walking out alongside fellow City hero Martin Peters for his testimonial game in 1978 Picture: Archant LibraryDuncan Forbes walking out alongside fellow City hero Martin Peters for his testimonial game in 1978 Picture: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

- If you would like to pay tribute to Big Dunc, you can email norfolksport@archant.co.uk

- You can take a look at some of the Twitter reaction to Forbes' passing above and below