PARTICK Thistle have announced that club legend John Lambie has died aged 77. 

Lambie spent three separate spells in charge at Firhill between 1988 and 2003, guiding them to the top flight in 1992 after winning the First Division twice with Hamilton Accies twice in the 1980s.

He then earned a place in Jags folkore by transforming the club's fortunes, taking a struggling side all the way to the SPL following back-to-back promotions in 2001 and 2002.

Lambie's playing career saw him rack up more than 400 appearances for St Johnstone and Falkirk, who he later went on to manage in the 1995/96 season. 

A colourful character, the Partick hall of fame inductee was also known for his fondness for cigars and pigeon racing. 

A club statement on Tuesday read: "Partick Thistle Football Club is deeply saddened to learn that former manager, hall of fame inductee and Thistle legend, John Lambie has today passed away.

"The thoughts of everyone associated with Partick Thistle Football Club are with John’s family and friends at this difficult time."