Former Leeds and Wigan coach Maurice Bamford dies, aged 83

The family of Maurice Bamford have confirmed that the legendary rugby league coach has passed away, aged 83.

Bamford was one of the most well-known figures in the English game, coaching Wigan, Leeds and the Great Britain test side.

A former player at Hull FC, the Englishman began his coaching career in the amateur game, managing Stanningley, Dudley Hill and Castleford Lock Lane, amongst others.

In 1985, Bamford was appointed the first ever full-time Development Officer for rugby league in the United Kingdom when he spent two-and-a-half years at Leeds City Council.

During his first spell at Headingley, Bamford began with an 18-game unbeaten run, going on to pick up the 1984 JP Special Trophy final.

Following his retirement from coaching, he began working in the media as a match reporter and author.

His family confirmed he passed away in hospital on Wednesday night after a long battle with illness.