STEVE Beck was one of those larger-than-life figures who give so much back. As both chairman of York City FC and chairman of the club’s Supporters’ Trust, he played a key role in the Minstermen’s survival in the dark days after the departures of Douglas Craig and John Batchelor.

His love of the club was infectious, his delight when they did well obvious. And the real affection and respect in which he was held is reflected in the flood of tributes paid to him in The Press today.

Those paying tribute include fellow Supporters’ Trust board member Paul Rawnsley. “I will always remember him as a big, friendly, kind guy who was always straight and uncomplicated,” Paul said.

“He was somebody I felt I could always trust and rely on.”

Former City player and manager Chris Brass remembered Steve’s sense of fun - and his willingness to have a laugh at himself.

“The first memory I have of Steve is of him coming in for a training session and joining in,” he said. “We all certainly enjoyed that day.”

On our letters page, meanwhile, Roger Marshall recalls being a student on a work placement at the club in 2005.

“He couldn’t have been more friendly and accommodating to a stuttering, inexperienced student like myself!” Mr Marshall wrote.

Steve, sadly, had had heart problems for years. He had spoken in the past about being revived by paramedics after his heart stopped in the back of an ambulance.

Now he has gone, at the too-young age of 58.

In a sign of respect, the team he loved so well will wear armbands in his honour at their last home game, and a one-minute silence will be observed.

That shows how very greatly he will be missed.

Rest in peace, Steve.