TRIBUTES have flooded in for a man who devoted years of his life to his local rugby club.

On Monday, April 22, Newton-le-Willows rugby union club announced the passing of former coach and chairman Martin Maguire, who coached the first team for many years and then progressed as club chairman.

A former player for the now-disbanded Vulcan RUFC, Martin put in countless hours of voluntary work at Newton and is credited as someone who helped to sustain and stabilise the club during its most testing times.

Despite being diagnosed with prostate cancer several years ago, the former veteran would still be seen cheering on the team, helping out at the Crow Lane clubhouse, or securing much-needed sponsorship deals.

After his battle with cancer, Martin initially got the all clear but unfortunately, his illness returned and he passed away last week.

Speaking about the club's former chairman, the club's vice captain and committee member Alan Callister said: "Martin was someone who always put his best foot forward with the club and community.

"He had time for everyone at the club and would do anything for anyone.

"The club has had some pretty tough times where it was struggling with participation and finances, but Martin was someone who did everything he could to keep the club afloat at the time.

"He always tried to bring people together, and organised foodbank initiatives and Christmas parties, and also helped to bridge the divide with the rugby league club that we share the clubhouse with.

"He was someone who was passionate about rugby union, in an area that is a hotbed of rugby league, so he always tried to keep the sport alive and keep the club in good stead.

"He was a very proud man but there is no doubt in my mind that the club is in a better place thanks to him."

With dozens of tributes and messages of condolence being left for Martin, Alan said that this sums up the sort of character that he was and how respected he was in Newton.