FOLLOWING those paid to former Whitehaven forward Jim Neale, tributes have also been given to two former Whitehaven Rugby League players.

A spokesperson for the Whitehaven RL Vice Presidents: "It’s sad to hear of the passing of former hooker Mick McFarlane and prop forward George Messenger.

"Both wore the chocolate, blue and gold in the late 1960s.

"Mick joined our neighbours Workington Town from Kells ARLFC before signing for Haven in May 1967 after being on an indefinite loan from Town.

"At 5’ 11” he was a tall man for a hooker but that never stopped him from being the regular number 9 from the 1966/67 season to the 1970/71 season.

"Brother of John ‘Spanky’ McFarlane he made 138 appearances in Haven colours, scoring six tries, kicking four goals and a remarkable 27 drop goals.

"George played his amateur rugby for Broughton Moor after playing for Cumberland U19’s and at open age level.

"He had signed for Workington in 1962 but hadn’t played any first team games.

"He signed for Whitehaven for the 1968/69 season along with Keith Hunter and Kenny Gallagher from Distington.

"The prop forward made his debut for Haven on October 5, 1968 in a 2-22 loss at Wilderspool against Warrington.

"His final game was on December 19, 1970, in a 2-3 loss at home to Widnes.

"The prop forward made twenty appearances in the chocolate, blue and gold and scored two tries.

"Our condolences go to the families and friends of Mick and George.

"May they rest in peace, and we thank them for their service to our club."