Tributes have been paid to the well-known chairman of Darlington Rugby Football Club who tragically passed away this weekend.

The loss of Tom (Tommy) Miller will leave a "hole in the hearts" of supporters after sixty years of service to Darlington RFC, reads a heartfelt tribute issued by the club today (March 10).

Tom, who leaves behind his wife, son, and grandchildren is understood to have passed away yesterday (March 9).

An emotional tribute issued by the club paid tribute to his service.

It says: "Our flags fly at half mast today after the devastating loss of a true rugby gentleman. 60 years service to a club he loved and he epitomised everything the sport represents.

"The loss of our club chairman leaves a huge hole in our hearts and our club, Tommy played, coached, refereed, managed, cleaned, litter picked, set up pitches, supported, provided a shoulder to many and simply made our club great.

"The only thing Tom loved more than rugby was his family and our thoughts are with his wife Lynn, son Dan and his grandsons.

"The rugby community pulls together in its grief and we send our love to all who knew Tommy - thank you Tommy we will miss you."

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Darlington Football Club also released a statement about Tom's passing.

It says: "Darlington Football Club are very sad to learn about the sudden death of Darlington Rugby Club chairman Tom Miller at their game at Blackwell Meadows yesterday.

"We would like to pass on our sincere condolences to Tom's family and friends."