Hit and run victim was club secretary for 40 years

A man who died in a hit and run collision had volunteered as his rugby club's secretary for nearly 40 years.

Brian McClure, 74, was struck by a car on Barnsdale Road in Castleford and died at the scene.

Mr McClure had a lifelong association with York RUFC, which he first joined as a player in the 1970s before taking up the role of honorary secretary in 1987.

A statement posted on the club's website said Mr McClure, from the Rawcliffe area of the city, was one of the "staunchest, most loyal and well-loved personalities within the club".

According to the statement, Mr McClure's son Neil and grandson Alfie also played for the club.

It said: "There was rarely a Sunday morning when he wouldn't be seen supporting the various teams in Yorkshire cup games or friendlies.

"Brian was extremely well known throughout the Yorkshire rugby community. He was a key interface between clubs for fixtures and was always a font of knowledge willing to give his wise words of wisdom to solve any issues that might arise.

"Many of us will be looking wistfully at the touchline over the coming weeks, expecting to see Brian smiling and watching the game before we fill our minds with fond memories of a wonderful man and a much-loved member of the club."

York RUFC said Mr McClure had played for the first team in his heyday and in more recent years was "passionate about the junior section and was a regular attender of matches with a keen eye on developing talent".

"For many members of York RUFC, past and present, there will be fond memories of Brian throughout all ages," it said.

In a tribute on Thursday, his family said: "Brian was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. A kind, warm and loving man, he will be hugely missed by all. A life cruelly cut short."

West Yorkshire Police said a man in his 30s had been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving while over the prescribed limit and released on bail pending further inquiries.

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