TRIBUTES have been paid to a cricketer and church warden.

Leslie Johnson, who was born and bred in Rilllington, died at York Hospital on Friday, December 8, at the age of 70, after several months illness.

Mr Johnson was a self-employed painter and decorator by trade.

He was a church warden at St Andrew’s Church, in Rillington, chairman of Heslerton Cricket Club and a member of Lions International, the Association of Cricket Officials, the Cricket Society, Yorkshire County Cricket Club and Scarborough Cricket Club.

Mr Johnson was also a member of the Institute of Advanced Motoring and Bridlington Sailing Coble Preservation Society.

Brian Maud, a member of Malton and Norton Lions Club, said Mr Johnson always gave 100 per cent.

“Les Johnson joined the Lions a few years ago, he liked people, he enjoyed his duties as a Lion,” he said.

“Les was a doer who never complained. He will be remembered for his cheerful nature, his good work and his friendship.”

Mr Johnson’s funeral service was held on December 20 at St Andrew’s Church, Rillington, followed by cremation at the East Riding Crematorium, Octon.

He leaves a wife Karen and sister, Margaret.