A FLAG at Kendal rugby club is flying at half mast in honour of a staunch supporter and lifelong member who has died aged 79.

Terence John 'Terry' Stavert was in his 60th season at Kendal Rugby Union Football Club having started out as a player in his late teens.

Suffering from lung cancer, the dedicated grandfather and father-of-two, of Kendal, even managed to make one last trip to the Shap Road ground for a home game against Widnes just two days before his death.

Born in Kendal in 1936, Mr Stavert attended the former Kendal Grammar School before going into national service in the 1950s during which time he was posted for a while in Germany.

On his return Mr Stavert worked as an electrician, first for Hadwins and then for what was Westmorland Hospitals.

But his passion throughout his life was rugby.

Starting out as a player in Kendal RUFC's first team as a teenager, he was involved as a player until the 1970s when he was a member of the veteran's team.

As well as doing odd jobs for the club, Mr Stavert served on the committee and was an honourary life member.

The father-of-two was also instrumental in the building of Kendal Squash Club in the Brewery Arts Centre car park.

Mr Stavert was married to wife Rosamund 'Roz' Stavert for 51 years until Mrs Stavert's death last year following a three year battle with mouth cancer.

A 'very good cook', a jazz fan and lover of travel, Mr Stavert had a network of friends who he would see every Friday.

His son Iain Stavert, 52, of Kendal, said: "He was a very likeable guy, a solid run of the mill person who would do anything for you. He had a good sense of humour and was always willing to help."

The Gilbert, Gilkes and Gordon worker added that his father was devoted to grandson Nathan, 10, who he would often pick up from school and play football with.

Paying tribute to Mr Stavert, Kendal RUFC chairman, Stephen Green, said: "Terry was a stalwart of our club who was hugely respected by all who knew him.

"His loyal support will be greatly missed."

Mr Stavert was diagnosed with untreatable lung cancer seven weeks before his death on September 28 at St Mary's Hospice, in Ulverston.

He is survived by his son Iain Stavert and daughter Rachel Stavert, 49, a curate in Penrith.