THE wife of a former director of Barrow's rugby league club says she is 'heartbroken' after he died of Covid-19.

Keith Nutter died in hospital aged 65 following three weeks of treatment for the virus.

The former director of Barrow Raiders has been remembered as a 'top bloke' amid an outpouring of grief in the community.

The grandad of three and dad of two was described as a 'family man' by wife of 44 years Patricia.

She said: "He absolutely loved his rugby but his family were his world.

"He was a really caring man who absolutely adored us.

"It's heartbreaking. I can't believe he's gone."

Mrs Nutter said she and the family were 'praying he would survive' after he was admitted to Furness General Hospital's intensive care unit having tested positive for the virus.

She said she had received a flood of support following his death.

Barrow Raiders chairman Steve Neale was among those from the town's sporting community to pay tribute.

He said: “It's such a shock.

"Keith was so instrumental with his work for the Furness Raiders who have gone from strength to strength.

"The senior side have reaped the rewards of the hard work of Keith and the coaches.

"He was always on hand when we choose players for the hall of fame. He will be a massive loss at the club."

Furness Raiders coach David Cairns said: “I am gutted. He was a top bloke - he was so passionate for Barrow rugby.

"He put so much time in with the young academy lads and was at every game last year home and away.

"He was very knowledgeable and he loved being with the young players and they loved him.

"It's such a great shame.”

The rugby was the author of a number of books the rugby side and acted as the club's historian.

One of his biggest achievements was said to be producing Keeping The Dream Alive along with close friends Steve Andrews and Dave Huitson. The book was a who's who on every Barrow player from 1897 to 2008.

Mr Andrews said he was 'absolutely gutted' by his friend's death.