The last remaining member of a consortium which saved the Bradford Bulls from extinction has died following a car crash.

Life-long Bradford rugby league fan Maurice Lambert, pictured, who was part of a group which saved the then Bradford Northern from going under, died aged 85.

Mr Lambert, of Matthew Close, Riddlesden, Keighley, lost his battle for life in Airedale General Hospital at Steeton on Saturday.

The former Royal Marine died six days after being seriously injured in a car crash on Bradford Road, Riddlesden.

Mr Lambert, along with the late Bradford legend Trevor Foster and ten others, each gave cash to save the club in 1964. He remained an avid fan for the rest of his life and was looking forward to the new season. His wife, Peggy - who was married to him for 58 years - said: "He had just bought his season ticket and his car park badge. His seat is waiting for him at Odsal, but he'll never get there now. He was such a big fan. He had been a follower ever since he was a boy and went to every game." John Downes, Bradford Bulls heritage project development officer, said fans would be informed of Mr Lambert's death in this week's programme for the Salford game.

"Maurice played a crucial part in the history of the club as a member of the group who helped it reform," he said.

"Without him and those other directors there would have been no Bradford Bulls, the most successful team in the Super League."

Mr Lambert and the other 11 directors helped re-establish the club after it ceased to exist in 1964 and following a public meeting in St George's Hall called to save it.

Mr Lambert, who has four children, and his wife lived most of their life in Lidget Green, Bradford, before moving to Riddlesden 15 years ago. In their 60s they worked for several season as holiday camp site managers in France. He volunteered for the Royal Marines during the Second World War when he helped train commandos and served in Germany.

The couple were married at St Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Bradford on June 9 1948. "I have never been without him in all that time, until now," said Mrs Lambert.

Police today reappealed for witnesses to the accident which happened at noon on Sunday, February 12, at the junction of Cliffe Crescent.

Mr Lambert was driving a Volkswagen Polo when he was in collision with a blue Audi. The driver of the Audi and passenger were treated at Airedale and discharged.

Anyone who can help police should call (01535) 617059.