Fans and players at York Wasps will honour the passing of a former Supporters' Club chairman with a minute's silence at their next home game.

Dennis Baker, formerly of Acomb, died at home last Thursday, aged 77, after an illness of the lungs.

York born and bred, Dennis was a sheet metal worker at Rowntrees - where he won a long service award - before retiring aged 59.

After that, he devoted his time to his family, travelling, and one of his biggest passions - York's Rugby League team.

His wife Marjorie explains: "He had always loved the rugby and used to watch York all the time when they were playing at Clarence Street.

"But when they moved to the Ryedale Stadium Dennis realised York didn't have a supporters' club and he decided to do something about it.

"So he was one of the founder members of the supporters' club, and after that he gave up hour after hour working for the club, raising money to pay for players and buy equipment.

"I ended up getting roped in as well, but I didn't mind, and before long I was almost as committed as Dennis.

"I say almost, because I don't think anyone could have been as committed as he was."

Dennis was also a Freeman of York, an honour handed down through his family that his son John, 37, is continuing.

John said: "The title of Freeman goes right back into the history of our family, and I know dad was very proud of it. When I was made a Freeman at the age of 16, perhaps my mind was on other things, but at the ceremony I could see how proud dad was.

"I'm so glad I did it and I hope my son will be able to carry on the tradition."

Dennis is survived by three other children, Christopher, Philip and Mandy. The minute's silence at York Wasps will be held on June 24 at the game against Widnes.