Cumberland Amateur Rugby League is in shock after the sudden death of the secretary Lorraine Degraff.
Lorraine had taken on the job seven years ago and has done an outstanding job since then, a major asset to the league and the rugby league family in general.
Roger Blair, who stepped down as chairman 18 months ago, led the tributes. He said: “Lorraine was the perfect secretary who had been steeped in rugby league all her life.
“Her husband Frank played for Maryport and their son Darren is playing now, so the family is well known in rugby league circles.
“She was the type of person who would help anyone and bent over backwards to help the clubs in the league which they appreciated. She could also be firm the other way when she needed to be.
“This is a shocking blow for, not only Cumberland ARL but also at the RFL itself because she got on so well with officials there.”
Current Holmen Iggesund Cumberland ARL chairman Peter Gilmour said: “People are in shock after the news broke. Lorraine was such an important part of our game in the county.
“In fact Lorraine and the late Joan Blair were both women who led the way in Cumberland ARL circles. I think Lorraine was the first women to win the Clubman of the Year award at the Maryport club.
“We are going ahead with our League programme on Saturday when there will be a minute’s silence before the games, and that will also apply to the BARLA National Cup where two of our teams are taking place.”
Lorraine made her mark as secretary of the Cumberland ARL and her late father Cyril Ostle was known in pigeon racing circles as he was secretary of the Derwent Valley Federation.
She leaves husband Frank, son Darren and daughter Ellie – and a host of friends she has made through her time in rugby league.
There are only three games on this weekend starting tonight with Hensingham A v Aspatria, kick-off 7pm.
Playing on Saturday are Glasson Rangers v Kells A; Flimby v Wath Brow A.
In the BARLA National Cup, Lowca travel to Rochdale Mayfield while Cockermouth are at Thatto Heath Crusaders.
