Tributes as Hull KR's Mr Reliable Johnny Moore dies at 71

TRIBUTES have been paid to Hull Kingston Rovers legend Johnny Moore after his death from a heart condition.

The former centre, who played 430 games for the club, died aged 71 from rare heart condition amyloidosis.

Mr Moore spent 25 years at the club, first as a player and then as an assistant coach, before retiring.

He scored 105 tries for Rovers and captained the side to their 1967 Yorkshire Cup triumph against Hull FC.

Business Cards From Only £10.95 Delivered www.myprint-247.co.uk

myprint-247

View details

Print voucher

Our heavyweight cards have FREE UV silk coating, FREE next day delivery & VAT included. Choose from 1000's of pre-designed templates or upload your own artwork. Orders dispatched within 24hrs.

Terms: Visit our site for more products: Business Cards, Compliment Slips, Letterheads, Leaflets, Postcards, Posters & much more. All items are free next day delivery. www.myprint-247.co.uk

Contact: 01858 468192

Valid until: Sunday, May 26 2013

Hull KR's former coach Roger Millward said rugby has lost one of its great servants.

"Johnny epitomised what Hull KR is all about," he said. "He was loved by the supporters and was a fantastic guy to work with.

"He will be remembered by all at the club as a great centre and a great coach."

Mr Moore was assistant to Roger Millward during the club's most successful era including their 10-5 Challenge Cup final win over Hull in 1980.

"He was a model professional," said Mr Millward. "He was so cool, calm and collected about everything. Nothing ever fazed him.

"We never had any problems and we got on really well. His contributions to the club and the sport were marvellous and will never be forgotten.

"I am extremely saddened by the news and it has really knocked me back. It is such a tragic loss for everyone involved with the club."

Former Hull KR winger Ged Dunn followed Moore as Mr Millward's assistant and admits it was difficult.

He said: "Johnny stepped down as Roger's assistant after the 1986 Challenge Cup final defeat to Castleford.

"I got to know him through the coaching side of things, but he was a hard act to follow because he was a role model to me.

"His contribution to the club is under-rated as he did a lot behind the scenes during its most successful era.

"While Roger was pulling the strings on the pitch, Johnny was taking care of things on the bench.

"He was a real gentleman off the pitch who took no prisoners on it. He was one of the hardest centres Hull KR ever had and he will be sorely missed."

Moore joined Rovers in 1962, aged 19, from East Hull Amateur Rugby League Football Club and impressed with his defensive qualities and tactical aptitude.

After suffering a serious knee injury, he made a try-scoring debut in August 1963 in a 47-8 home win against Castleford.

Colin Hutton, president at Hull KR, said Moore will be remembered for his workman like attitude both on and off the field.

He said: "He was a fantastic centre and was known for his total reliability.

"He was a wonderful person, very quiet, but I can't think of anyone that would have a wrong word to say about Johnny Moore."

Mr Moore is survived by his wife Pauline and son Darren.