TRIBUTES have poured in from the rugby league community and beyond following the death of a popular IT manager due to coronavirus.

Leigh Centurions' Andrew Parkinson was aged just 35 when he died due to complications arising from Covid-19.

Club bosses and players, as well as the Rugby Football League, joined in the commemorations for the well-liked RL figure.

In a message on Facebook his father Fred said: "Most will know Andrew from his long association with The Leigh Centurions both at the LSV and Hilton Park.

"Our hearts are broken son and no words can tell of the heartbreak mum, David and I are going through. RIP big man, love from us all."

In a statement, Leigh Centurions said: "Everyone at Leigh Centurions would like to send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Andrew Parkinson.

“He will be greatly missed by his colleagues and friends not just in Leigh but across the rugby league community.

“An absolute gentleman, Andrew always went above and beyond for the Club he loved.”

Leigh hooker Liam Hood said: “Andrew had a heart of gold and always had a smile on his face will be massively missed.”

Mayor of Greater Manchester and former Leigh MP Andy Burnham posted: “So sad to hear this. What a loss. Andrew was a top man and a kind soul. Love to all his family.”

An RFL spokesman added: "The Rugby Football League would like to pass on our thoughts and condolences to the family and friends of Andrew Parkinson and everyone at Leigh Centurions during this difficult time."

Former Leigh coach Tony Benson said: “So Sad. The loss of one very good man. He was always so kind and considerate, like all the Parkys. Condolences to the Parkinson family. RIP Andrew. The Bensons.”

Another former colleague Lyndsey Smith added: “Sad to hear .... Andrew was there when I worked there .... lovely gent .... RIP xx.”

Jonathan Hindley added: “When I was a volunteer for the club he was unbelievably helpful. Funny bloke too, always made me laugh."