Arrest made following death of former Oldham rugby league player

An arrest has been made following the death of former Oldham rugby league player Mick Martindale, as tributes are shared in his memory.

Greater Manchester Police were called to a property on Eldon Street, Oldham, on Wednesday night after a 50-year-old man was found deceased.

Whilst the cause of death is still unknown, they have now arrested a 64-year-old man on suspicion of murder, and he remains in custody.

His family continue to be supported by specially trained officers as the investigation takes place.

Martindale is a much-loved figure in the game in Oldham, with tributes shared of his rugby league days and his contributions off the field since.

His former club posted a tribute on social media following the police’s announcement.

They said: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of our former player Mick Martindale.

“Mick wore the Oldham shirt with pride in the late 90s, and was a well-known face throughout our community game, as well as in his coaching roles at Oldham St Annes.

“The club sends its condolences to Mick’s family and friends.

“RIP Tricky.”

Former player a popular man in Oldham amateur rugby league scene

Martindale made his rugby league debut for Halifax Panthers, for whom he played four times in Super League, starting out as a teenager before joining Wakefield in 1997.

The loose forward then moved to Oldham one game into the 1998 Division Two season, making his debut against Widnes Vikings in the Challenge Cup.

He played 26 games that season, including the Trans Pennine Cup Final against Batley Bulldogs, and scored seven tries.

Next, he moved to Rochdale before finishing his career at Oldham St Anne’s, winning the National Cup with them, and remained a well-known figure in the amateur game in the area, later coaching St Anne’s also.

Oldham Rugby League’s Heritage Trust described Martindale as “a larger-than-life character gone far too soon.”

Detective Inspector Andrew Barrett from Oldham CID said: “We would ask anyone who may have any information about the incident to please pass this onto officers, as it could be of great assistance, contacting GMP on 01618569577 or 101 quoting log 3307 of 28/05/25.”