JOHN FAIRBANK was a no-nonsense forward from a well-known Elland-based Rugby League family who followed in his father Jack's footsteps by playing for Leeds, then crossed the Pennines to represent Oldham and, briefly, Swinton.
Fairbank, who has died aged 55, was one of four brothers who all turned professional. Karl represented Bradford and Great Britain, Dick played for Halifax and Mark for Oldham and Keighley.