TRIBUTES have been paid to a lifelong Workington Reds supporter, who took ill before the club's home game on New Year's Day. 

Joan Crellen took ill before the New Year’s Day game with Bamber Bridge and was rushed to hospital, but died the following morning.

A fan from a young age, Joan had also served as a director, when she became the first female member of the board and one of the first in the country.

She had earlier been a member and then secretary of the Supporters' Club and she has also worked in the club’s main office when required.

She had been a loyal fan of the club from the 1950s and has appeared on television on several occasions, discussing her involvement and love for the Borough Park-based club.

A club spokesman said: “An eloquent speaker, Joan appeared on both radio and TV several times as a club spokesperson, always displaying her passion for the club.

“The club sends condolences to Joan’s family and friends at this difficult time.”

Joan, from High Harrington, is survived by sons Andrew and Peter, and daughter Joanne.