League world mourning 'one of most popular' long-time officials Bob Lanigan

The rugby league world is in mourning following the death of one of its longest serving and most popular officials.

Bob Lanigan was a talented goal kicking winger for Newtown in the 1960s, making his debut in 1965. He was a prolific point scorer, leading the Sydney scorers list in 1966 with 185 points.

Largely due to Lanigan's contribution, the Bluebags, as they were then known, reached the finals for the first time since 1962 that season.

READ MORE: 'Dying inside': Cornes admission after boxing loss

READ MORE: Top international jockey dies after Canberra fall

READ MORE: Chelsea captain 'abused' after video leaked

He was Newtown's top point scorer for the following two seasons before going bush, finishing his playing career as captain-coach of the Griffith Waratahs.

After retirement, Lanigan became a ground manager for the NRL, always smiling and greeting players, officials and journalists alike as they arrived at games.

He was also the head trainer for the Warriors during the club's early days.

He ran games with a calm efficiency and anytime a crisis arose, he would handle it with professionalism and grace.

Watch the 2024 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

Poor health saw him reluctantly stand down recently and he will be sorely missed by the rugby league community.

Bob Lanigan was 81.