VIC Yorke, one of York Rugby League Club’s legends, has died after a lengthy illness. He was aged 75.

Yorke, who was born and bred in the city, at one time held no fewer than five prime points-scoring records with the club for whom he made more than 360 appearances between 1954 and 1967.

The goal-kicking prop forward, who lived in Acomb, still holds the York club record for the most points in a career – 2,159, the highest number of goals in a career – 1,060, and the most goals in a game – 11 against Whitehaven in September 1958.

His record of 301 points in the one season (1957/8) was bettered in 1984/5 by Graham Steadman, while it was only four years ago that his most goals in a season record of 146 was beaten by Danny Brough, now playing in the Super League for Wakefield Trinity Wildcats.

He graduated from the Old Priory Youth Club side to sign for his home-town club at the age of 20 at the end of the 1953/4 season and went on to enjoy a 13-year career at the club’s then Clarence Street base.

The former soldier also represented Yorkshire and in one such game kicked ten out of 12 goals in what he termed his most memorable individual kicking display.

Yorke is survived by three daughters, Lynda, Sharon and Jackie, and two sons, John and Ian. The funeral is expected to be held on Friday.

* Don’t miss the Knights diary in The Press on Saturday for a full tribute to Vic Yorke.