Tributes after death of WW2 RAF hero and lifelong Doncaster Knights fan

The funeral of a Doncaster World War Two hero and lifelong rugby fan is due to take place tomorrow.
Cyril Howitt was a regular at Doncaster Knights games.Cyril Howitt was a regular at Doncaster Knights games.
Cyril Howitt was a regular at Doncaster Knights games.

Cyril Howitt died last month at the age of 93 after being diagnosed with coronavirus.

He was a regular at Doncaster Knights games and a post on the club’s supporters’ page said: “It is with a sad heart that I report the death of long standing member of Doncaster Rugby Club, Cyril Howitt.

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"He rarely missed a home match and was a regular on the supporters’ bus too.

“His brand of clear and concise game analysis will be missed by all who knew him.

Born in 1927 in St Helens, he was the husband of Margaret for 65 years.

An obituary said Mr Howitt was ‘preceded in death by his beloved son Richard, who he called his best friend, grandfather of Harry and Helanah.’ He is survived by his sister Betty.

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Cyril served in the RAF during WW2, before following his father and brothers into the coal mining industry in which he worked for 40 years.

Affectionately nicknamed Clint – after Clint Eastwood - for his good looks and no-nonsense attitude, he rose to area manager, overseeing 3,000 men before retiring.It added: “Cyril was extremely well respected among colleagues and friends alike.

"After retiring, Cyril devoted his time to being a husband, father, and grandfather, whilst working in the family antiques business. He loved walking, cycling and Doncaster Knights.”

The funeral is at the Sacred Heart Church, Goldthorpe tomorrow at 11am followed by committal at Barnsley Crematorium.