Ex-Middlesbrough defender and dementia campaigner Bill Gates dies aged 79

Former Middlesbrough defender Bill Gates has passed away aged 79.

Gates was a key member of the Jack Charlton-coached Boro side that gained promotion from Division Two in 1973-74. He made 293 appearances for Middlesbrough during his career.

Gates retired early, hanging up his boots aged just 30 after suffering from persistent migraines.

Gates was diagnosed with dementia back in 2014, a diagnosis that inspired a nationwide campaign.

Upon hearing her husband’s diagnosis, Dr Judith Gates launched a charity centered around research into links between heading a football and degenerative brain diseases.

Pictured: Head for Change charity match

Whilst Bill’s diagnosis was the trigger, the driving force behind the campaign was always his wife Judith, who arranged header-less matches to raise money and awareness for brain injuries.

Pictured: Head for Change charity match

Judith’s incredible work and Bill’s cognitive decline led to the creation of the film, ‘The Billion Pound Game’. The film’s name is a reference to the estimated cost of caring for ex-footballers suffering from degenerative brain diseases over the next 30 years.

Dr Judith Gates said of her husband, “He asked for a solemn promise and made a personal commitment that together we must do everything to prevent this from happening in the future.”

Pictured: Head for Change charity match

Current Middlesbrough head coach Michael Carrick said, “I think I can speak for everyone at the club when I say what sad news this is. On behalf of myself, the players, the staff, and everyone connected with the club, our thoughts are with Bill's family and friends at this time.” In a statement to the club’s website.