Tributes have been paid to the “larger than life character” Ged Stokes, former Whitehaven and Workington rugby league coach, who has died.

New Zealander Ged, who coached both Workington Town rugby league club and Whitehaven RLFC between 2003 and 2010 after making Cockermouth his adopted home, died after a nearly year-long battle with brain cancer, at the age of 65.

Ged also played for Workington Town in the early 1980s.

Ged was described as being “written into the rich fabric” of Workington Town’s history. The club’s chairman, Les Smallwood, said today that he will be “sadly missed” by all at the club.

The father of English cricketing hero Ben Stokes, Ged was described by his former Whitehaven club as a “major part of Cumbrian rugby league”.

Ged coached the Whitehaven team from 2008 to 2010, taking up the job after leaving behind a much-improved Workington Town.

A statement released today described all at Whitehaven RLFC as “deeply saddened to hear the passing of former coach Ged Stokes.

“Ged was a major part of Cumbrian rugby league having coached both ourselves and neighbours Workington Town.

“Our thoughts at this time are with all of the Stokes family.”

Workington Town chairman Mr Smallwood paid a personal tribute. “Ged was a larger than life character who not only played for us but came back to coach when we were facing some real challenges on the pitch” he said.

“His knowledge of the game was second to none and he commanded respect and affection from everyone who knew him.

“He still has many, many friends here in west Cumbria and he will be sadly missed by us all.”

The Rugby Football League said on social media today: “We are saddened to learn that Ged Stokes has passed away.

“Ged was a New Zealand international who became a fine servant to the British game with his work in Rugby League across Cumbria.

“The RFL sends its condolences to the Stokes family. Rest in Peace, Ged.”