It was the moment Brunton Park paid tribute to one of the most gifted players ever to grace the ground.

Stan Bowles, who died last weekend, was remembered with a minute's applause by the 7,891 crowd before Carlisle United's game against Reading.

Fans, players and staff came together before the 3-1 defeat to recognise the hugely talented star who played for the Blues in the early 1970s (watch below).

Bowles, whose face appeared on the big screen during the minute's applause, passed away aged 75 having suffered from Alzheimer's Disease in his latter years.

He is remembered as one of the brightest talents ever to have played for United in a 33-game spell from 1971 to 1972.

News and Star: Carlisle players applaud in memory of Stan BowlesCarlisle players applaud in memory of Stan Bowles (Image: Barbara Abbott)

After joining United from Crewe Alexandra, he lit up Carlisle's Division Two side under Ian MacFarlane.

News and Star: Bowles, left, in action for Carlisle against TottenhamBowles, left, in action for Carlisle against Tottenham (Image: News & Star)

Memorable Bowles displays included a hat-trick against leaders Norwich City at Brunton Park.

The skilful star was also part of the United side who famously defeated AS Roma in the Stadio Olimpico in the Anglo-Italian Cup in 1972.

Bowles, who had previously been on Manchester City and Bury's books, went on to join Queens Park Rangers, and his iconic spell for the London club saw him recognised as one of their all-time greats.

A stand was recently named after Bowles at QPR's Loftus Road Ground, with Rs fans having voted him their best-ever player in polls.

Bowles, who was also well-known for his colourful off-field life, played for Nottingham Forest, Leyton Orient and Brentford later in his career, and won five England caps, scoring once for the Three Lions.

News and Star: Coaches and substitutes applaud in memory of Stan BowlesCoaches and substitutes applaud in memory of Stan Bowles (Image: Barbara Abbott)

Carlisle, after the sad news of Bowles' passing, said they were saddened by the news, with chairman emeritus and former owner Andrew Jenkins saying: "Stan was a great character, he had a great time here at Brunton Park. 

"As soon as you saw him play you knew he was going to be a fantastic signing. 

"He did so well for us that he got noticed by QPR and went on to have a great career with them. 

"David Dent was secretary at the time and we both have great memories of him as a player and as a person."

QPR are planning a major tribute to Bowles at their Championship fixture against West Bromwich Albion on Wednesday, with a large mosaic to be displayed in the Stanley Bowles Stand before the game.