North Craven sportsman Johnny Walker will be remembered at a special tag rugby tournament tomorrow.

Settle Primary School, Giggleswick School, North Ribblesdale Rugby Club, the RFU and Settle College have joined forces to pay tribute to Johnny, who died suddenly last January, aged 44.

Johnny, who went to Settle Primary, Middle and High Schools and worked as properties manager at Giggleswick School, was a talented rugby player. His rugby career spanned North Ribblesdale, Otley, Keighley Cougars, Barrow, Batley and Hunslet and he represented the North of England and Yorkshire.

Richard Wright, headteacher of Settle Primary School, said: “We have linked up with North Ribb, the RFU, Giggleswick School and Settle College to honour Johnny and his memory by holding a tag rugby tournament, a fitting tribute to a great man. Johnny was a great role model, sportsman and supporter of sport.

“We hope that this will be the first of many annual tournaments to promote and showcase rugby to local families and encourage new players, providing a fitting legacy for Johnny.

“On behalf of us all, I would like to thank the Walker family for giving their consent and support to this tournament.”

Eighteen teams of under nines and under 11s will take part in the tournament at Pape’s Field, Giggleswick School from 2pm.

There will be awards for fair play, and best boy and girl. North Ribblesdale is providing referees and Settle College students will act as chaperones.

“We anticipate a number of his friends and colleagues, as well as his family, will join us and everyone is most welcome to come along to the event and remember Johnny,” said Mr Wright.