TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular sportsman who died on a golf course. Peter Grainger, 53, of Singleton Avenue, Read, collapsed and died during a competition at Whalley Golf Club.

The keen cricketer was brought up in Read and attended Clitheroe Royal Grammar School, joining the Read 1st XI aged just 16.

The team then enjoyed a period of unprecedented success, reaching the last eight in the National Village Cup and winning the Ribblesdale League, as well as the Ramsbottom Cup, without a professional player.

Read Cricket Club secretary David Marshall paid tribute to Mr Grainger, who was also an enthusiastic footballer.

"He was an extremely good wicketkeeper and a very forceful, hard-hitting batsman, once hitting for a massive six on to the forecourt of the newsagents in Straits Lane, a unique feat. He was supremely capable, confident and enjoyed every minute of his time on the field.

"Off the field he was a vibrant, energetic and enthusiastic person, who was the life and soul of Read Cricket Club for many years. He did much work for the club.

Whalley Golf Club closed for the remainder of Saturday as a mark of respect for him.

Club president John Pollard, said: "Peter had been a member of the club for several years and was highly thought of. We are very upset by his death."

Mr Grainger was also a keen goalkeeper, who over the years played for Read FC, Colne Dynamos and Burnley Utd.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce, daughter Sadie and son Michael. His funeral takes place at 12.30pm on Friday at St John's Church, Read, followed by cremation at Burnley Crematorium.