TRIBUTES are being paid to Woolston Rovers President and club legend Harry Crank who has sadly died aged 79.
A former player and coach at the club, he was always a constant figure since the club’s inception in 1959.
Club Chairman Steve Moore said: “As Chairman of Woolston Rovers Rugby League Club it saddens me greatly to hear of the passing today of our club President, Harry Crank.
“I want to start by offering mine and the clubs deepest and most sincere condolences to his family and friends.
“Harry has been involved with the club since it’s inception in 1959 in one capacity or another. He has been a constant figure around the place who was always willing to help the club he loved in any way he could. He played in the early years, he coached, he has been President, but he also fundraised, donated money himself, he was at every work party that was ever organised as well as plenty of occasions when he went down to the club on his own, or with his good friend Warren Whalley to carry out pitch and clubhouse maintenance.
“Harry did all of this whilst at the same time, fundraising for the Warrington and Birchwood Lions and raising a loving and caring family, and latterly caring for his ill wife, Joan.
“I have been involved with Woolston for around 15 years and in that time I got to know and love Harry, as did everyone that came through the club. I was honoured to receive the presidents award from him and just as honoured and proud present him with the clubman’s award a couple of years ago.
“The word legend is banded about far too easily but to myself and everyone involved with the club, the word was made for Harry Crank.
“Rest in peace H, you will never be forgotten at our club. You will forever be the Grandfather of the green and gold family.”
On behalf of @WWRLFoundation would like to pay respects to @woolston_rovers legend Harry Crank who has sadly passed away.
Harry has been an incredible servant to Woolston and the game in general for over 50 yrs, if it wasn’t for people like H there would be no Rugby League. RIP pic.twitter.com/dMYufBc6dM
— Peter Astley MBE (@PeteAstley) June 15, 2022
Club President Harry Crank – R.I.Phttps://t.co/jkwALTUoTN pic.twitter.com/KCsFib2f8T
— Woolston Rovers RLFC (@woolston_rovers) June 15, 2022
Had the absolute pleasure of spending plenty of time in this blokes company over the years. Going to miss having a chat to him on the touchline and having a drink in the club after a game. Green and Gold through and through 😥🔰
— Paul Berry (@PBez84) June 15, 2022
Harry was my neighbour as a kid growing up. As a Crosfields lad I used to love catching up with him on the annual Perpignan trip & having a good craic about the rugby & old times. Such a lovely man & sad loss. Thoughts are with all his family & everyone at Woolston. RIP Harry
— Carl Porter (@CarlPorter1) June 15, 2022