TRIBUTES have been paid to a well-respected Cumbrian priest and former rugby union player who had a 'sincere interest in people' and a 'mischievous sense of humour'.

Father Alf Parker, 88, died peacefully surrounded by family and friends at Cartmel Grange Nursing Home on November 7.

Fr Alf was born and raised in Workington, attended Workington Grammar School and was ordained at Our Lady Star of the Sea & St Michael’s RC Church on 23 May 1964.

He had marked the 60th anniversary of his ordination with a celebration Mass in May.

Fr Alf was Parish Priest at St Charles Borromeo RC Church, Grange-over-Sands and before that Holy Trinity & St George, Kendal, and Cottam.

He previously taught at Underley Hall in Kirkby Lonsdale and was chaplain to Layton Hill School, Blackpool St Joseph’s.  He retired in 2015 and stayed in Grange. 

Fr Alf was a talented sportsman, playing rugby for Workington Zebras, along with brothers Kevin and Barry, and for England U-19s. 

He was a much-loved brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, devoted priest and friend to many, with a sincere interest in people and a mischievous sense of humour, said his family.

A vigil will take place at St Charles RC Church, Kents Bank Road, Grange-over-Sands, on Thursday, November 28 at 6:45pm followed by Requiem Mass on Friday, November 29 at Boarbank Hall Chapel at 11:30am. 

Donations, if desired, are for CAFOD and World Vision, which can be made online via www.saundersfunerals.com or sent to Saunders and Son Funeral Directors, West Winds, Allithwaite Road, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 7EP.