A HUGE turnout of mourners was testament to the popularity of North-East businessman and sportsman Harvey Madden on Monday.

St Hilda's Chapel at Teesside Crematorium in Middlesbrough was overflowing for a celebration of the life of Mr Madden, who died aged 66 after battling leukaemia and lymphoma.

He became best known in recent years for his work with Darlington Football Club, first when he was appointed the club's administrator in 2012, and then as a volunteer adviser.

He was an insolvency specialist with Yarm-based Taylor Rowland and he had also been a colourful figure in grass roots sport, captaining Norton Cricket Club and Dinsdale Golf Club, and playing for Stockton Hockey Club and Yarm Tennis Club.

Friend Derek Robinson spoke about Mr Madden's business life, saying he was "always professional" but knew when the friendly touch was needed.

Mr Robinson said it had been the hardest job of Mr Madden's career when he was faced with the task of keeping Darlington Football Club afloat, knowing it would have been easier to close it down.

He had earned the respect of every Darlington fan, said Mr Robinson.

David Yuill, of Stockton Hockey Club, spoke about Mr Madden's love of sport, saying he brought talent, infectious enthusiasm, and a wicked sense of humour to the clubs he represented.

Family tributes were led by Mr Madden's sister Pam and his widow Eileen, who described him as "loving and special". He also leaves two daughters, Kirsty and Gemma, and five-year-old grandson Louis.

The service ended with a rendition of Monty Python's "Always Look On The Bright Side of Life" before mourners were invited to toast Mr Madden's life at Dinsdale Golf Club.

Darlington Football Club was represented at the service by chief executive Martin Jesper and director David Mills.

Mr Madden's grandson Louis will be the club's mascot at Saturday's home game, and an outstanding achievement award will be presented in Mr Madden's honour at the club's awards dinner at Rockliffe Hall on May 8.