TRIBUTES have been paid a man whose effort and time spent at a rugby club will not be forgotten.

Jim Neale, who was a former forward for Whitehaven Rugby League Football Club, passed away at the end of November.

Whitehaven RLFC team manager, and one of the Whitehaven RL Vice Presidents, Des Byrne, paid tribute to Jim.

He said: “Born in Maryport, Jim signed for Haven from Broughton Moor in June 1958.

“His debut in the chocolate, blue and gold came at Fartown, Huddersfield on November 1 1958, at second row.

“He was a direct replacement for the great Dick Huddart, who had been transferred to St Helens.

“He played at total of 124 games in the chocolate, blue and gold before being transferred to Hull.

“The Boulevard club paid a reported record £6,000 transfer fee for him.

“Jim’s career at Hull saw him make 115 appearances for the Black and Whites before moving to York for three seasons.

“He returned to the City of Hull in 1972, but this time to Hull KR, where he played until his retirement in 1973.

“Jim also played two games for Cumberland.

“A total of 341 games scoring twenty tries in a career spanning 14 years and four clubs.

“Jim was tough forward who played the game hard and woe betide anyone who crossed his path.

“Our condolences go out to Jim’s family and friends.

“Rest in peace, marra.”