Tributes have been pouring in for a 'genuine' and 'lovely' man from Shaw who supported his community for decades before he died last week.

Leslie 'Les' Whittle is understood to have died suddenly on Saturday, January 27.

Les was well-known and loved in the Crompton community, according to the dozens of tributes and comments from loved ones who say he was a "top" cricket player who adored his family and who completed almost two decades working as a steward at the High Crompton Conservative Club.

Fond memories of Les from the club, members and friends have since flooded social media as they described the father as a "legend", a "true gentleman" and "one of life's good men".

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High Crompton Conservative Club said in a post online: "The committee, stewardesses and bar staff are all devastated to hear this very sad news.

"Les was the steward at our club for over 18 years and was loved by many.

"The members will have many fond memories of Les and his time at the club."

The club then extended their thoughts and prayers to Les' wife, Carol, and his daughters.

Another friend, Stuart Lomas, said he was "devastated" by the news, writing: "I have known Les about 20 years. He was a great person to spend time with.

"Always upbeat and fun to be around.

"He was a great guy for the Con Club and made everyone welcome.

"He worked hard and played a big part in making the club the place it is today.

"He was a big family man - thinking of Carol, his girls and all the family."

A former employee, Alicia Dunne, added: "I still can't believe this.

"Rest in peace, Les, a truly, wonderful man and former boss, will be sorely missed."

Others also said the news was "shattering", saying Les was "such a lovely man" who was "always friendly".

Friends said they could always have "a laugh and a joke" with Les and that everyone enjoyed his company, describing him as "one of life's true characters".

Lizzy Wrighty added: "He was a legend and a true gentleman."

People who knew Les through cricket have also shared their memories, including Craig Whittle who wrote: "The happiest I ever saw him on the cricket field was back in 1999 when we won the interleague cup.

"That coach ride home was golden and what a night we had back at Crompton Cricket Club."

Jimmy Griffith added: "Hard to imagine a cricket season without chatting to Les about Crompton CC and cricket in general.

"One of a kind. A genuine Shaw legend. One of life's good men."

Another said he remembered Les giving him "some sound advice as a bowler" when he was 17 and another said he appreciated Les for being his first captain to play under as a child.

"Another local cricketing legend taken far too soon", added Mark Barnes while Carolien Wright said there was "never a dull moment" when he was around.

Adam Keeley also reflected on a time when Les extended his help to a local football team during his time at the Con Club, which was "greatly appreciated" by the team.

Crompton Cricket Club said Les was a "Crompton great" in cricket and that members will miss "the stories and tales of his many years of cricket, both playing and watching".

The club added: "It's such a shock and will leave a hole in many people's lives that knew him.

"Les was a massive part of the club's history and his tales will go on and he will be fondly remembered by all players and members of Crompton Cricket Club.

"Rest easy my friend." 

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