TRIBUTES have been paid to the former secretary of the Warrington District Rugby League Association and North West Counties Youth after she lost her brave battle with cancer last night (Wednesday 23rd April).

Hilary Steel, who was awarded an MBE in 2009, stepped down from her roles in October last year due to serious illness and died surrounded by her family at St Roccos.

Jackie Files, North West Youth League secretary, said: “Hilary fought a very brave, spirited battle yet sadly this one even Hilary could not beat.”

Speaking in 2013, the Orford rugby stalwart said in her resignation letter she hoped to emulate Steve Prescott who was given only months to live but managed to do ‘wonderful things’ in the years since and hoped to see Warrington Wolves win more cups and trophies.

In her final email to her many friends and colleagues detailing the serious deterioration of her illness just two weeks ago, Hilary apologised for having to resign from the RFL Regulatory Committee and declined a position on the Youth Committee due to illness! She also invited everyone to 'the Crem' and the following party at Rylands!

People from across the North West have been posting tributes to this inspirational woman on twitter and Facebook. She made many friends due to the support and advice that she was always on hand to offer when needed.

That doesn't mean that she was always everyone's favourite. Woe betide anyone who sat across the disciplinary table from her! Firm but fair, Hilary had no time for bad manners and foul language - on or off the rugby field!

The funeral will take place at Walton Crematorium on Friday 9th May at 1:40pm. The family have requested family flowers only but donations will be collected for St Roccos Hospice for those that would like to donate. There is a donation site for people who would like to make a donation in her memory:
http://www.justgiving.com/remember/119766/Hilary-Steel

Ben Logan posted on Facebook: Sad to learn of the passing of Hilary Steel. A driving force for the development of countless players, match officials, administrators and the whole grass roots of rugby league in general. The sport should be forever in her debt. Rest in peace.

Peter Brooke posted: RIP Hilary Steel a great loss to Rugby League. She had such a positive impact on so many people and a driving force in the community.

Michael Dawber posted: You helped so many young lads in Warrington over the years -but your love of rugby league didn't stop with just the players -you helped so many young referees like me, Karl Kirkpatrick and Matt Thomason - a proper member of the RL Family! RIP Hilary Steel

John Welch posted: Sad to hear of the passing of a truly great rugby enthusiast...Warrington has lost an inspirational character. RIP Hilary Steel

Eileen Bright posted: RIP Hilary Steel a true friend and a legend of rugby league. You will be sorely missed and never forgotten. Deepest condolences to all her family at this sad time xx

Paul Berry tweeted: Sad day for RL. RIP Hilary Steel, a great supporter of @woolston_rovers and a huge support in rebuilding of our club pic.twitter.com/lZakPxamHh