MEMBERS of Bishop Auckland rugby club have paid tribute to stalwart founder-member Ted Robinson who died last week at the age of 68 after a long illness.

Former chairman Les Wood said: "Ted called the very first meeting to set up the club in 1976. He was everything to the club. He was the first club coach, he refereed many times and even played. He gave his all to the club."

Current chairman Ron Williamson said: "Ted took over from me as chairman in 1982 and held the position for several years. He also served as rugby committee chairman and our county representative. Until his illness, he was one of the main driving forces of the club."

Mr Robinson was the first manager of the King James Community Centre in Bishop Auckland. The first rugby games were played on the school field, and the first clubhouse was in the former Vulcan pub in the town. The rugby club is now well-established with a purpose-built clubhouse on a 13-acre site at West Mills.

A requiem mass was held at St Mary's RC Church, Woodhouse Close, last Friday. Mr Robinson leaves a widow, Josie, two children and three grandchildren.