VETERAN journalist Paddy McAteer has been hailed by the Barrow & District League for his phenomenal contribution to the grassroots game in south Cumbria.

McAteer was made a Life Member of the league at Friday’s annual general meeting and the Barrow ARL’s long-serving secretary Terry Barker enthused: “Paddy has been covering amateur Rugby League since the early 1970s and, over 53 years later, is still keeping the flag flying.”

Barker revealed: “It all started with Mini Rugby reports in the Barrow News, but with Mini Rugby becoming so popular, the Evening Mail took over. 

“Paddy, with hours of work, compiled words from club coaches and volunteers – and the Mail produced two full pages each week.

“In 1973 he was asked to take over the Senior section on a Wednesday and, in later years, round-ups on a Monday and a Wednesday along with Friday previews.

“Paddy has made hundreds of friends from local clubs and further up the Cumbrian coast.

“Many good games were witnessed, along with some great players, with one highlight covering the Barton Townley Final, which has just had its 44th game, with Paddy only missing out on one.”

McAteer reflected: “It all started by chance. The Mail’s advertising rep Roly Parker did the Mail’s amateur Rugby League round-up each Wednesday, then he went on to pastures new.

“I was already doing the Mini Rugby round-up, so I was asked to cover both. 

“I have really enjoyed my journey. I will be 80 in January and have no intention of putting pen and paper to bed.”

“It is pleasing that the rugby fraternity still look forward to my articles,” he added. “I feel honoured to receive this award and am very grateful to Terry Barker and his committee for their nice gesture. It will go alongside two South Cumbria trophies I received for services to sport.”