VINCENT Clifford devoted much of his life to sport in Huddersfield.
Mr Clifford, of Lockwood Road, died in Huddersfield Royal Infirmary, aged 93.
He was a life member of Huddersfield Rugby Union Club and club members paid tribute with a minute's silence prior to the Saturday's match at Lockwood Park.
But rugby was just one of his loves.
He was a keen young bowler with the old Lockwood Brewery and latterly in veterans' competitions in Huddersfield.
In the 1940s and 1950s, he was virtually untouchable as a racing motorcyclist in Huddersfield, taking part in many scrambling and trials events.
His son, Geoffrey Clifford, said: "He was by far one of the leading competitors of his day and was involved in many of the club meetings all over the region."
The highlight of his career on two wheels was undoubtedly in 1953 when he was asked to compete in the Clubman's TT races in the Isle of Man, run alongside the international TT races.
Mr Clifford was born and educated in Springwood and left school to become an apprentice motor mechanic at Albion Street Motors in Huddersfield.
He later worked for more than 30 years with a brewery, serving as a driver.
He also worked at book publishers Schofield and Sims.
During the Second World War, he served with the Royal Navy.
Mr Clifford stepped up his sporting prowess while he was in the navy and he represented the service in international rugby games.
He played as a fullback or centre for the Navy and for his Huddersfield club.
He was highly regarded by club officials for many years.
After his retirement he continued to work behind the scenes at the rugby club.
He was a familiar figure, working as the club gateman.
Mr Clifford was also a regular competitor on the bowling greens at Greenhead Park and in the winter indoor leagues at Huddersfield Sports Centre.
He was a widower and leaves two sons, four grandchildren and a number of great-grandchildren.
His funeral will be on Friday, April 16, at Huddersfield Crematorium at noon.
