Hull FC mourn Arthur Bunting who dies aged 80

Hull FC have announced the most successful coach in their history Arthur Bunting has died at the age of 80.

Bunting, who also coached and played for cross-city rivals Hull KR, was at the helm the last time the Black and Whites won the title in 1983.

He also oversaw the club's record-breaking season in 1978/79, when his invincibles won all 26 games in the second tier.

During his time in charge between 1978 and 1985, Bunting also won the Challenge Cup, the Yorkshire Cup three times, the John Player Trophy and the BBC2 Floodlit Trophy.

"This is a very sad day for everyone connected with the club as we lose one of the finest people to ever be associated with Hull FC," executive director James Clark said.

"His record as a coach speaks for itself, unprecedented success and deservedly recognised as the man responsible for overseeing a golden era in the club's history.

"However, for all those who knew him around the club, his close friends and former team-mates, he is remembered as the perfect gentleman, kind and supportive, and a genuine rugby league fan with a brilliant sense of humour. He had a smile for everyone.

"His love for the sport and the club was infectious, whilst his humility and modesty for a man of such stature in our history was admirable and perhaps it never truly hit home how respected and adored he still is today.

"The thoughts of everyone at the club go out to the whole family, as well as his close friend Richard Marriott, with whom he shared many match days at the Boulevard and the KCOM Stadium."

The club will pay tribute to Bunting at Friday's Super League game at Salford and when Castleford visit in the Challenge Cup next week.