Rugby league mourns the death of Tommy Sale

Sale, awarded an MBE for services to rugby league in 2011, devoted his life to the sport and his hometown club.

Sale's life in rugby league spanned more than 80 years, starting with his first job as a scoreboard operator for Leigh at the age of 10. He went on to play for the club's first team and, after finishing his career at Widnes, later served Leigh as a director, assistant secretary, scout, statistician, timekeeper and president.

He oversaw the construction of the club's former home, Hilton Park, in 1946-47 and the road to their current ground, Leigh Sports Village, is named in his honour.

Away from the game he was a teacher for 33 years, including 13 as a head. He also ran a shop, served as a councillor and did voluntary work in care homes. He fought in the Army during the Second World War and attained the rank of lieutenant.

The highlight of his playing career came as he captained Widnes in the 1950 Challenge Cup final at Wembley, having scored two tries in the semi-final win over Bradford.