ARTHUR BEATTIE, a driving force behind amateur rugby league in Keighley died this week.

Mr Beattie was one of the figureheads behind keighley Albion when the club was formed and was club secretary for many years.

His influence on the game also extended beyond the local game. He was at the George Hotel in Huddersfield when BARLA, the British Amateur Rugby League Association, was formed and was also involved the amalgamation of the former Huddersfield and Halifax leagues to create the current Pennine League.

He was well known by many people throughout the Keighley district where he was a postman for many years.

He also had a keen interest in all sports and in recent years maintained a keen interest in Keighley Cougars and also watched Harden Cricket Club, where his son Martin plays with the first team.

Current Keighley Albion coach Keith Reeves said: "Arthur was the figure-head of the club when I was a young player and his administrative strength helped the club develop at a vital time in its history."

He is survived by his wife, Freda, children Lesley, Stephen, Tony, Martin and Deborah. A funeral service was due to be held today, Friday, at 8.45am at St John's Church, Ingrow, followed by a family ceremony at Oxenhope crematorium.