Bates’ arrival from non-league Stourbridge was the beginning of a 50-year bond with Shrewsbury as a player, coach, manager and supporter.
He scored 17 goals in his debut season, helping his side to promotion to Division Three, and his goalscoring exploits led to him being signed by Swindon Town for £30,000 in 1977.
Bates returned to Shrewsbury two years later and made a further 160 appearances in his second spell before joining the club’s management.
He was inducted into Salop’s hall of fame in 2013 and was often seen at the Croud Meadow watching his team play.
The club said its thoughts were with Bates’ “family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time”.
Former Shrewsbury defender Darren Moss called Bates an “absolute legend of the football club”.
He added: “[He was] A real gentleman and brilliant guy to be around. I was proud to be in his company and [he] will be sadly missed. RIP Chic, will never be forgotten.”
