Chelsea have paid tribute to oscar-winning British film director Richard Attenborough after his death was announced on Sunday evening.

Attenborough spent time on the Chelsea board for over 10 years having joined in 1969, where he also served as director, before becoming a Lifetime President at Stamford Bridge in 2008.

"He led a long and successful life and always found time for the things in life he loved most, one of which was Chelsea FC," read part of a statement from the club.

"Renowned throughout the world for his work in cinema which honoured him with awards for acting, directing and producing, football - and Chelsea in particular - was never far from his thoughts.

"His personality was woven into the tapestry of the club over seven decades. He was a consistent force for good at the club, even in dark times."

Attenborough won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1983 for his work on the film Gandhi.