Tributes are paid to Haddington's Joe Forte after his death

Joe Forte ran Joe Forte Sports on the town’s High Street for more than 35 years before shutting up shop in the summer of 2021.

The former footballer, who played for Hibernian, Berwick Rangers, Meadowbank Thistle and Ormiston Primrose, was also a key figure in the formation of Blooming Haddington and previously chaired Haddington and District Business Association.

Mr Forte, 65, was also a founding member of HELP (Haddington East Lothian Pacemakers), which would go on to become Haddington Running Club.

His family's connection with the town stretches back even further, with his mum and dad running Forte Café for more than 20 years before the sports shop opened.

Businesses from throughout Haddington town centre came together to say their farewells to Joe Forte, when he closed the doors on Joe Forte Sports in 2021 (Image: Contributed)

Provost John McMillan, who represents the town on East Lothian Council, told the Courier: “I’m really, really sad about it.

“I have known him for a long time.

“He was a really good friend of my family rather than me but it is so sad; a short retirement.

“He did so much for the town, just with his prowess in running and the family history with the café and the shop.

“His wife, Norma, I’m thinking about her and they were a great couple for the town who did so much.”

Fellow ward councillor Tom Trotter knew Mr Forte from playing football alongside him.

He said: "It is a sad story.

"He certainly contributed to the community he lived within and he loved Haddington.

"Joe was a character and will be sorely missed."

READ MORE: Tributes to ‘true gentleman’ Joe Forte as he shuts up shop

When Mr Forte retired three years ago, colleagues from throughout the town centre were on hand to wish him well.

Presents were given to both Mr Forte and his wife Norma.