TRIBUTES have been paid to long-time servant of Furness junior football Dave Tyson, who has died aged 70.

Tyson served on the board of the Barrow and District Junior Football League from 1976 onwards, filling various roles including league secretary and, in more recent times, vice-president.

He died in St George’s Nursing Home after a long battle with cancer.

Tyson was one of the key figures in running the now-defunct St Aidan’s United team and an active member of the Furness Referee’s Society before becoming invaluable to the junior game.

For many years, his results, fixtures and tables from across the divisions were distributed to the clubs and the Evening Mail, providing a valuable service to players, coaches and other league officials.

Barrow JFL chairman Dennis Boyd, who knew and worked alongside Tyson for many years, hailed the role his good friend had played and his impact on local sport.

He said: “It was the cause of great sadness when I heard of the death of my friend after his brave battle with cancer.

“David had a keen interest in football, being a lifelong supporter of Barrow AFC, but it was in his role as secretary of the Barrow and District Junior Football League that he will be best remembered.

“He was a success in the role, as he proved to be intelligent, (as befitted a Barrow Grammar School old boy), wise, shrewd and a enthusiastic hard worker.

“Over the years, David became popular and respected as he covered numerous meetings dealing with changes to the league rulebook and disciplinary matters.

“He always had a sound grasp of the facts, coupled with the ability to listen to others. Finally, he would sum up his own view in one sentence. A view that was generally accepted.

“In addition to being league secretary, David was also fixture secretary, referee appointments secretary and, for several years, player registration secretary.

“Throughout his time, all his correspondence, letters, fixture lists and league tables were hand-written and mainly delivered by post on time.

“Following his decision to retire as secretary in 2012, his role proved too much for one person to handle. Today, four individuals – all armed with computers – cover his former duties.

“From 2012 until his death, David continued to serve the League as a vice-president where his advice to League members was very much appreciated.

“So my good and trusted friend, it is time to blow the final whistle. You became a legend in your time with the league.

“I trust a method will be found to perpetuate your name in the Barrow and District Junior Football League forever and a day.”

Furness Premier League chairman Barbara Knagg Tweeted: “So sad to hear of the passing of Dave Tyson from the BDJFLeague. A massive servant to local football. He will be sadly missed.”

Walney Island Juniors, one of the many clubs he oversaw, Tweeted: “Sad sad news of the passing of @bdjfl stalwart Dave Tyson a servant of the league for so many years will be sadly missed #DaveTyson”

GSK Ulverston Rangers added their tribute via Facebook, adding: “Sadly, Dave Tyson passed away. He was vice president of BDJFL and previously was fixtures secretary etc. He was one of those people who selflessly just got on with the job, over many, many years. He will be sadly missed.”

Dalton Juniors said: “Dave was indeed a legend of the league and his commitment and hard work has undoubtedly been a great reason for the BDJFLs continued existence and operation. The club sends it’s deepest sympathies to all of Dave’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”

A funeral service for Tyson will take place at Barrow Crematorium on Friday, starting at 12.15pm.