Rugby league legend and broadcaster Kear dies aged 71

Former England and Wales rugby league coach, and renowned broadcaster, John Kear has died at the age of 71.

Kear, one of the sport's most respected figures, passed away on Sunday while travelling back from the Challenge Cup final.

He had been part of the BBC Sport commentary team for the match between Wigan and Hull KR at Wembley Stadium.

In a statement, the Rugby Football League (RFL) said Kear "was loved and admired throughout the sport and well beyond".

During a coaching career that lasted more than 700 matches and took in spells at a number of clubs including Hull FC, Wakefield Trinity and Bradford Bulls, Kear earned widespread acclaim for guiding Sheffield Eagles to a shock Challenge Cup final victory over Wigan in 1998.

The Eagles, now in the Championship, paid tribute on their website, , external saying: "He will always be remembered as the coach who delivered our finest hour and as a man whose passion for rugby league touched countless players, staff and supporters throughout the game."

Castleford-born Kear also led Hull FC to a surprise Challenge Cup triumph in 2005, beating Leeds Rhinos in the final at Cardiff.

The Black and Whites chief operating officer Tony Sutton said: , external "Like many supporters and people associated with our club, the memories of John's time with us, particularly that wonderful day at the Challenge Cup final in Cardiff in 2005, will be in our minds today."