Melbourne Football Club in mourning after death of treasured premiership hero Clyde Laidlaw, aged 89

The Melbourne Football Club is mourning after the death of a highly decorated premiership hero.

Clyde Laidlaw was a member of Melbourne’s golden era in the late 1950s and 1960s, and featured in four premierships between 1955 and 1960.

The Demons were powerhouse during this era, coached by Norm Smith and led on the field by the famous Ron Barassi.

During this period Melbourne won an astonishing six premierships: 1955, 1956, 1957, 1959, 1960, and 1964.

Laidlaw battled injury at the start of his career but soon made his mark in the team as a strong and reliable key forward.

Unfortunately, he missed the 1957 grand final due to a thigh injury.

“Melbourne Football Club is saddened to hear of the passing of four-time premiership Demon, Clyde Laidlaw,” the club said in a statement.

Laidlaw hailed from Portland and made his VFL/AFL debut in 1954.

He played 124 games and kicked 59 goals, with the club saying he “was a tower of strength, highlighted by his marking and kicking prowess”.

“While there were numerous stars in these teams, Laidlaw was one of the constant lights, and in 1959 was recognised for his efforts with an Outstanding Service Award,” the club said.

The centre half-forward was hailed for his “strength and safe marking, backed up by an extra yard of pace”.

After the 1960 premiership, Laidlaw was again struck down by injury.

He played just two more games in 1962 and then retired.

“(He left) behind him a legacy that will always be a treasured part of the club’s story,” the Demons said.

“We offer our most sincere condolences to Clyde’s family, friends and former teammates.”

Players will wear black armbands to honour Laidlaw when Melbourne plays West Coast on Sunday.

Funeral details have not yet been revealed but is believed Melbourne will bring the four premiership cups Laidlaw helped secure to the ceremony.