Kevin Whittle, an ex-Pilkington Recs Swinton Lions player in the 1960s and 70s, has died.

He was also well known for running the bars at Saints’ Knowsley Road in the 1980s.

The Swinton Lions described Kevin as an “iconic Lion” who gave “the 100% total commitment he gave throughout every eighty minutes and indeed throughout his career.”

Originally from the Pilkington Recs amateur club in St Helens, Kevin made his debut for the Lions on March 15, 1969, coming off the bench in a victory against Whitehaven.

Kevin Whittle ran the bars at Knowsley Road in the 1980s (Image: Swinton Lions)

He soon secured a regular place in the first team and was first reserve for the Lions’ Lancashire Cup Final win over Leigh in 1969.

A career highlight came in 1975 when he helped Swinton secure promotion to the top division.

Over the course of his career, Kevin made 180 first-team appearances for the Lions, becoming a firm fan favourite in the number 11 shirt.

In a statement, Swinton Lions said: “It wasn’t just the 18 tries he scored or the many he prevented, but the 100% total commitment he gave throughout every eighty minutes and indeed throughout his career.

“At Swinton Lions we are deeply saddened to announce the passing of iconic Lion, Kevin Whittle.

“Thank you for being you, Kevin.

“Our thanks go to Steve Moyse for pulling these fine words together.”

His final match came in August 1977 during a Lancashire Cup tie at Knowsley Road against his hometown club, Saints.

A broken arm in that game ended his playing career, but he remained involved in the sport by moving into coaching with Pilkington Recs, at a time when the red, amber and blacks were one of the strongest amateur teams in the country.

In their post, the Lions cited veteran rugby league journalist David Burke, describing Kevin as “the hardest man on the field, and the kindest man off it.

The post, which the Lions said had been put together by Steve Moyse, added: “On a personal note, Kevin was part of my growing up for more than 50 years, family, friendship, rugby, and not all in that sequence.

“A good man, a treasured friend.

“I shall never forget him.

“RIP old friend, it has been a true privilege to have shared a part of your life.”

There will be a minute’s silence ahead of kick-off today’s Lions