TRIBUTES have been paid to a “stalwart” of a Rossendale cricket club who died this week.

Sport enthusiasts have expressed their condolences after the death of Rawtenstall-born Brian Manning, a former player and chairman of Rawtenstall cricket club.

Friends said Brian, known as “Bam”, will be remembered as a “gentle-man” and a “committed sportsman”.

Members of Rawtenstall cricket club, where Brian served as a wicketkeeper and batsman for 32 seasons, have been paying their respects.

Brian Payne, chairman of Rawtenstall cricket club, said: “Brian was a brilliant man who I have known since 1963.

"He will be sadly missed by so many people at the club.

“We used to go on holidays together and I knew him well, and it was an honour.”

Brian, 69, was the director of regeneration, community and leisure services for Preston city council until his retirement in 2001.

Jim Carr, the council’s chief executive, said: “Brian was a dear friend and colleague who I will miss greatly.

"It is very sad that someone with such energy has been taken well before his time.

“I had the privilege of working with him for many years and was amazed at his work rate and determination which took leisure services in Preston to new heights.

“Twenty years ago he spoke of spending on leisure as an ‘investment in people’ referring to the healthy lifestyles concept which is now embedded in leisure service provision across the country.”

Brian, who used to live in Newchurch Road, was also a keen long distance running and despite numerous battles with cancer, completed the London Marathon in 2001 and the Great North Run six times in his life.