TRAGEDY struck Keighley Town rugby club with the death of star player, Wayne McComb, this week.

Wayne (above), was found dead at home on Wednesday after celebrating his 30th birthday.

His coach and close friend, Martin Plunkett said: "I am absolutely devastated, I have known Wayne since he was a youngster and he was a brilliant guy. He played rugby league for Yorkshire and was probably the best local amateur player having played for Worth Village, Silsden, and Keighley Albion before returning to Keighley Town. He also played a few games for Keighley Cougars where he really impressed."

Wayne's last game was in a memorial game for clubmate Adam Greenwood who died in a car accident before Christmas. He scored a hat-trick of tries during the game and was named man of the match.

He was an exciting player with a superb sidestep and excellent turn of speed.

Cougar coach Gary Moorby was among those to pay tribute to talented half-back who also played hooker.

"I coached him at Keighley Albion and he was an excellent player and superb scrum half. He was a very strong defensive player and ellusive in attack.

"I was deeply saddened by news of his death and my thoughts and sympathy are with his family."

Wayne was a member of one Keighley's foremost rugby league families with his brothers, John and James McComb playing with local rugby league clubs. He is also the brother of Paul Sinfield who plays with Keighlians rugby union club.

He had recently started his own business in the building trade.

"Everyone in local rugby league will be devastated by his death. Wayne was a superb player on the field and was also the life and soul of the party after games," Martin Plunkett said.