Tributes paid to football club vice-chairman

Mr Voakes, who had been involved with the club for more than 20 years, died on Sunday - six months after being diagnosed with a brain tumour six months ago.

His wife Carol said: “Martin absolutely loved his football and he was also a loving husband and a loving father.

“He was very caring and he was a family man first and foremost.

“He loved his children and his grandchildren and really enjoyed spending time with them.”

Mr Voakes, who lived in Ossett, was a pupil at Flushdyke School and Ossett Grammar School.

He was a self-employed grounds maintenance worker.

Mrs Voakes said: “Martin was very well-known across the area through his love of football.

“He was quite a character and will be very sadly missed.”

Mr Voakes worked alongside the club’s former chairman Graham Firth before his death earlier this year.

Neil Spofforth, club secretary, said: “Martin was a fantastic guy who just loved the club.

“He was always happy to talk about anything and if something wanted doing he would just do it without question.

“He always wanted to make sure that the best possible people were doing the best they could for the club.

“Martin will be very sadly missed and it’s noticeable that he is not there. His death has left an empty space at the club.”

Mr Voakes’ funeral will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium, Heckmondwike Road, on Wednesday, November 4 from 11.15am.

Mr Voakes leaves behind three children and two grandchildren.