The death of Peter Delaney has left the Bradford Union mourning the loss of one of its most popular officials.

Delaney, who was junior organiser for the district for 15 years and held the same role at Baildon Golf Club prior to that for 22 years, passed away last Saturday.

The 76-year-old became one of only four men to be made a Bradford Union life vice-president earlier this year in recognition of his service to junior golf.

Bradford captain Tim Wade expressed his sadness at the news and paid tribute to his contribution in helping to develop youngsters to play at senior level.

He said: “I knew he had not been well for a while but it still comes as a great shock.

“His contribution to Bradford golf was immense as he has brought youngsters into the juniors and they have gone on to do well for the seniors.

“He’s brought people in who have gone on to be Yorkshire champions and England internationals.

“Everyone thought he was a great guy and he’ll be sorely missed.”

Delaney joined his home club Baildon as a 24-year-old in the early 1960s and became a handy golfer.

A leg amputation six years ago due to a diabetes-related problem ended his playing days but he remained a vibrant character within the Union.

He became involved in organising junior golf in the late 1970s and continued his role right up to this year.

He helped expand Union-wide coaching for juniors, carried out by his son David, and also performed starting duties on a regular basis in senior competitions.

His funeral will take place at Nab Wood Crematorium on Wednesday at 10.50am.

* Bradford tee off in the Yorkshire Inter-District Team Championship  on Sunday at Ganton.

The six-man team features Ben Mountain, Calum Hey, Terry Brushwood, Rob Hillas, Darryl Berry and Will Whiteoak. Ben Cheetham is reserve.