Tributes have poured in following the death of rugby league icon Jackie Reid MBE last Tuesday.

Mr Reid, 86, of Egremont, was a popular figure in the game, having spent time as a player and BARLA official. He was also instrumental in securing the future of the Cumbria Sports Academy, in Hensingham.

Cumberland ARL chairman Roger Blair said Mr Reid would be a big miss to the game.

“He was our league president and has been for some time,” said Mr Blair. “I was lucky enough to go on tour with Jackie a number of times with BARLA. He was always a great ambassador for BARLA and he lov- ed getting involved with the teams.

“If I ever needed advice he would point me in the right direction. It was a pleasure to know him.

“He was so down to earth and he wanted the best for the lads. He didn’t like politics in the game – for him it was about getting the lads on the park and seeing them progress.

“On behalf of the Cumberland ARL I would like to pass on my condolences to his family.”

Jackie began his rugby life at the grassroots with Egremont Rangers, serving the Gillfoot Park club with distinction for more than 30 years as a player and official.

He also played professionally for Whitehaven, a member of the legendary team which beat Australia at the Recreation Ground in 1956.

After hanging up his boots, much of his life was dedicated to BARLA, travelling the length and breadth of the country to promote the game as well as managing several BARLA international tours overseas and sitting on the BARLA board as senior vice president before being named president in 2012. His name was also added to the Rugby Football League’s roll of honour.

Jackie Beech, who served with Mr Reid on the stadium committee, added his tribute.

He said: “He will be a big loss to the game. He did so much voluntary work behind the scenes and put so much time and effort into rugby league, and also for his work at the stadium. He was organising a sportsman’s evening and working so hard on it as that is how we raise funds to keep going.”

Mr Reid is survived by his two sons, John and Paul.