Tributes to a true gent

Brian Delaney, 73, died at his home in Moor End Lane on Sunday with his wife and family at his side, after losing his battle with a brain tumour.

His son, Michael Delaney, who also played for Dewsbury Moor, said: “He was a great dad – he was one of a big family, and he helped his mother raise his brother and sisters when he was young.

“Because of this, he became a father figure to the whole of the family.”

He wed wife Joan at Dewsbury Register Office in 1961. The couple had four children Linda, Michael, Julia and Andrew. The couple lived at Moor End Lane, Dewsbury Moor, until Brian’s death.

Brian served as president of the club from 1998-2009 and was instrumental in helping it buy its three rugby pitches and extend its clubhouse.

Dewsbury Moor ARLFC sent a letter to the Reporter expressing their condolences.

It read: “Brian loved the club, and always enjoyed watching his sons and extended family play rugby.

“Our thoughts go out to his family.”

Chris added: “We have seen so many fantastic tributes, not just from people at Dewsbury Moor, but also the wider rugby community. It’s really quite endearing.”

Brian also ran Brian Delaney Masonry & Building Contractor for decades, and was involved in work on Harewood House, St Martin’s Hospice. His last job, fittingly, was in his hometown of Dewsbury, on disabled access for the train station.

His funeral will take place on Monday at Westborough Methodist Church at 11.45am.