TRIBUTES have been paid to the founder of Haydock rugby league club Eric Smith after he died following a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Eric was a stalwart of the sport's local amatuer scene having founded the Haydock club 37 years ago.
He fulfilled many roles at the club including chairman, player, kitman, first aider, match day programme editor and marketing manager.
In 2005 his efforts were recognised as he was named Unsung Sports Hero at the BBC North West Sports Awards.
The rugby league community had rallied to organise a series of fundraising events since his diagnosis.
Sad news of the passing of Eric Smith old school friend gentlemen founder / chairman of haydock A R L F C RIP Eric
— carl sharpe (@carlsharpe1955) June 19, 2016
Haydock A RLFC lost its founder and chairman last night, Eric Smith, absolutely devastated, a true gent and a giant of a man, RIP Waldo
— ian james swift (@Swiftythegreek) June 18, 2016
#BigThankYou Eric Smith of Haydock for services to amateur Rugby League. This man deserves the best.
— John Duffy (@JohnDuffy4) December 20, 2015
The society would like to send our condolences to everyone at @HaydockOA and family &friends of Eric Smith who sadly passed away yesterday.
— St Helens RLRS (@StHelensRLRS) June 19, 2016
so sad to lose such a fantastic,caring,funny,selfless person and friend, rest in peace waldo.@HaydockOA #teameric pic.twitter.com/kZaW26oPIu
— riggers (@markmazyrun) June 18, 2016
Eric was a top bloke who worked tirelessly for @HaydockOA and ARL in general he will be sadly missed.
— Blackbrook ARLFC OA (@BrookOA) June 18, 2016
Our prayers are with to his family.
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