WHAT a shock to hear Phil Elliott, the former York Wasps chief executive, had died.

I was very close to Phil through and after his York rugby league days. Knowing how fit and strong he was, it must have been a massive heart attack.

He was very witty, good company, and generous, but a very determined man in everything he did.

Phil was a dedicated family man, and a good friend.

I will miss his voice on the other end of the phone.

Ken Hunter, Nether Poppleton, York