FORMER York Railway Institute RUFC prop Mike Hutchinson has died, aged 82, in York Hospital after a long illness.

Brought up in West Heslerton, he was educated at Nunthorpe Grammar School, he was employed by British Rail all his working life and became a well-known tour guide in the city.

Hutchinson played for RI in the 1950s and 1960s, playing in two Yorkshire Shield finals and one Yorkshire Cup final in one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.

He was a York guide, a Minster tour guide and a touring bus guide for many years.

In 2006, Hutchinson was awarded the MBE for his work with young people across York in youth clubs and running activities for the Duke of Edinburgh scheme. His volunteer work with youngsters was principally at Chapelfields, the YWCA in Cumberland Street and the Melbourne Youth Club in Fishergate.

Married to the late Pam, he is survived by four children - Andrew, Carol, Julie and Richard - 11 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

The funeral service will be at St Mark’s Church in Rawcliffe on Friday, July 4, at 12.45pm followed by a private cremation.