A tribute has been given follwing the passing of a well loved man by the rugby club he dearly supported.

The recent news of the passing of David Lilly, who was a long time supporter of Whitehaven Rugby League club, was shared by the club yesterday (January 24), and a small tribute was shared which said: "Yesterday afternoon )January 23), just before kick off at Heywood Road, the club [was] saddened to hear the passing of David Lilly.

"David, who had been a supporter of the club since the inaugural game versus Hull back in 1948, had spent a short time in hospital before passing away yesterday.

"All at Whitehaven Rugby League have the Lilly family in our thoughts at this extremely sad time."

Gary Bilbeck, the Director of Whitehaven Rugby League Club shared some more thoughts on the adored man, and who he was.

He said: "Dave was a life long fan of the club.

"He came to the very first match that we played, and has been a supporter ever since.

"He was one of those people that if he had something to say, he would say it."

Gry explained that, like all rugby fans, David was not every shy to share his opinions on how he thought the Marras should play or do.

Gary continued: "At the end of the day, David always put his money in for matches, and was a part of the club's family."

Gary explained that Dave's family were also big supporters of the club.

Dave has two sons, a daughter, and granddaughters, and his daughter often comes out to the matches and helps out on the bar - further exemplifying that Whitehaven Rugby League is a family club.

Dave was in hospital prior to his passing, something Gary said surprised the club to hear.

He said that neither he nor his colleagues knew exactly what was wrong with Dave, and it was only the day before the news was shared that they had found out Dave was in the hospital since Christmas.

Gary said a tribute to Dave Lilly, including a minute's silence, will be held at their match against Barrow on February 6.