TRIBUTES have been paid to Gerry Moore - the popular former chairman of the Saints Supporters Club - who passed away at the weekend after a short illness. 

He was 87.

A die-hard Saints fan though good times and bad for more than 80 years, Gerry was passionate and opinionated about the oval ball game, particularly his hometown club.

He was one of a band of dedicated enthusiasts who gave up countless hours during those decades to help raise money for the club through the supporters shop and by running coaches to the games when support levels for away travel had dwindled to one or two coaches.

Warm-hearted and knowledgeable, Gerry was a Saint through and through - characteristics that earned the respect of players and fellow fans alike.

Gerry's daughter Christine Ross made the sad announcement on Saturday, writing on Facebook: "Early this morning our Dad, Grandad, Great Grandad, Father in law, Brother, Uncle and dear friend to many Gerry Moore sadly passed away. A massive Saints fan for over 60 years - Goodnight and God bless xx."

Saints Chairman Eamonn McManus paid tribute to Gerry this morning.

He said: “Gerry was as committed a Saints fan as I’ve ever met. He was also incredibly helpful and supportive to me personally, particularly in my early years as Chairman when I needed help and guidance from good and trustworthy people : Gerry was top of the tree.

“In addition, Gerry was an absolute gentleman whose life was committed to his family and to Saints. We shared hundreds of cups of tea in the old club shop at Knowsley Road and had put the club and the world back to rights after each one.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. He will always hold a special place in the hearts of all at the Saints who were lucky enough to know him.”

There have been an outpouring of tributes, including some from past players and supporters, on social media.

Former Saints stand off Peter Harvey tweeted: "Gerry was one of a kind. If he didn't visit Saints every day there was a real reason for it.

"He has been gradually slowing down recently and has been unwell. He phoned us up a couple of weeks ago and I felt then that he was wishing us goodbye. RIP Gerry we will all miss you."

Ex-Saints full back Phil Veivers wrote: "ABSOLUTELY gutted. A true gentleman who had time and enthusiasm for everyone especially the Saints. RIP GERRY you will be missed massively."

Supporter Paul Devanney remembered the tougher times following Saints when the old supporters club was the backbone of the club.

He tweeted: "Remember the early 80’s supporters club coaches and Gerry was synonymous with that period for me. R.I.P."

Another fellow supporter, Ian said: "Gerry was a great servant to our club and he worked hard to give the parent club donations year after year and will be sadly missed RIP."

Andy Foreman, who worked in the offices at Saints, left his tribute on Facebook, writing: "So sorry to hear this news.

"Gerry was always a huge help to me when I was at the Club and was a true Saints Supporter and a true gentleman. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the family at this very sad time. RIP Gerry."

And a message from Dave Hatton perfectly summed up why Gerry was such a popular character.

He wrote: "The nicest man I have ever met. He used to come to our office and talk with my dad about rugby, and he used to re live a game from the 60s as though it was last week.

"Every pass, try and even the rough stuff! A true gentleman who will be sadly missed in the rugby league community. Condolences to all his family, rest easy Gerry, and most of all, thanks."