Newcastle Knights in mourning after foundation player Tony Townsend passes away

Townsend was one of Newcastle's 1988 "pioneers" and left an indelible stamp on the club's history.

The former St George dummy-half played 25 games for the Knights in their foundation seasons, and was instrumental in some of their most famous victories.

He scored a try in Newcastle's iconic 24-12 Challenge Cup pre-season triumph against Manly in 1988, then produced another crucial four-pointer in Newcastle's 20-16 victory against Balmain a few weeks later - their first competition win on home soil.

Another of Newcastle's 1988 originals, Tony Butterfield, described Townsend as "nature's gentleman".

"He was a dear friend, very committed to his family, his career and his football," Butterfield said.

"To hear of his passing, our hearts go out to his family and friends.

"He was a great guy, a very loyal guy, but also someone who liked to have a joke and a laugh with the boys."

After parting company with the Knights at the end of the 1990 season, Townsend returned to coach his home-town team Dungog to premiership success.

He also excelled in his career as a policeman, progressing to the rank of Hunter District Chief Inspector.

He remained involved with the Knights as a member of their Old Boys committee.

After being diagnosed with Leukemia almost a decade ago, Townsend battled recurring health issues but friends say he never complained.

More than 500 family, friends, former teammates and police colleagues attended a benefit dinner in his honour in 2013.

Funeral details were still to be confirmed.

Townsend is the second former Knight to pass away this year after Jason Edwards in March.

MORE IN SPORT:

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: