TRIBUTES have been paid to a former British Lions rugby union international who has passed away at the age of 90.

Alan Ashcroft, described as a "much loved character" has died at the age of 90.

Alan leaves behind three children, Paul, Jason and Debbie.

Born and raised in Devon Street, West Park he went on to play 16 times for England and toured Australia and New Zealand with the Lions during the 1950's

Alan first started playing rugby aged 10 at Cowley Grammar School and turned out for his local team in St Helens going on on to play for Waterloo Rugby Club, captaining the first team from 1959 to 1961 and playing for the club’s various teams into his 50s.

He made his England debut in the 1956 Five Nations Championship against Wales, playing in all four of the Red Rose's matches in that year’s competition.

Alan Ashcroft

Alan Ashcroft

Alan also played all four games in the 1957 Championship to help England to an unblemished record securing the title in a memorable Grand Slam triumph.

He was also part of another title-winning England side in 1958 before making his final appearance in the 1959 Championship, winning his 16th and last cap against Scotland.

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Nicknamed 'Neddy', his performances saw him earn a spot on the 1959 British Lions Tour to Australia and New Zealand.

He played at total of 18 games on the Tour, scoring two tries in a clash against Bay of Plenty/Thames Valley, while he also started two of the six Test matches.

The 1959 trip is remembered as the 'longest Tour', the first match played on May 23 and the final game in September and the Tour also holds a unique place in history as the last of its kind to be all done by ship.

Alan, who was a schoolmaster at Liverpool College, where he taught art, also featured for a combined England and Wales side against Scotland and Ireland in 1959 in a match that marked the 50th anniversary of Twickenham Stadium.

He also made nine appearances for the Barbarians, including three matches during their 1958 tour to South Africa.

Alan's place in Lions history was recently recognised as he was presented with his ceremonial #387 cap in a special ceremony in 2018 as part of the 1888 Club project.

Then aged 88, he was one of the oldest living Lions players to receive his cap, with the ceremony taking place 59 years after that Tour to Australia and New Zealand.

The event was held at the Waterloo Old Players and Supports lunch, where former cross-code international and Saints player Ray French did the honours.

In tribute to his dad, son Paul said: "He was perhaps the toughest person in existence and characteristically went when he was ready and on his own terms.

"He was a much loved character and will be sadly missed by his friends and family. It is safe to say he left his mark and achieved a great deal from very humble beginnings."

Alan also leaves behind seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

He was married to wife Patsy for more than 50 years until her passing seven years ago.

Alan was also the brother of the late Wally Ashcroft, former councillor in St Helens, and also leaves behind surviving sister Susan.

Paul added: "He is going to be missed by everybody in the family and a lot of his friends."