TRAGEDY struck at Droitwich Spa Rugby Football Club when a respected and well liked player and coach died after suffering a heart attack during a match.

Mark Edwards, 42, took to the field for what was to be his final game on Saturday, October 29 for a veterans' match against Worcester at the Glyn Mitchell Memorial Ground.

However, Mark had to be substituted after he had trouble breathing just after half time and was treated by medical staff until an ambulance arrived.

He later died in the early hours of Tuesday at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

The former scrum half has since been hailed as an integral part of the club and a key asset with a work rate and effort that was second to none.

Speaking to the Advertiser, the club's director of rugby Julian Bailey said: "I think it is fair to say that the club would not be in the position it is in today if it wasn't for Mark. He lived and breathed rugby, he was an inspiration."

Mark played with many members of the second and third teams over the years, but will be best remembered for his coaching work with youngsters at the club and for coaching and setting up girls' and ladies' sides throughout the county.

He was also well known in rugby circles throughout Worcestershire and coached women's teams in Worcester, Droitwich and Malvern.

He also experienced coaching at international level with the England Ladies' under 19 side.

"The game was a one off but he was probably one of the fittest players out there. He had to come off when he had trouble breathing. The club is totally devastated. He did so much work for us and set up a lot of different courses here," Mr Bailey added.

Chairman of Droitwich Spa Rugby Football Club, Rob Bray, said: "He did not need inviting twice to play on Saturday for us, he was as enthusiastic as anybody I have ever met.

"He was a thoroughly nice guy, one who was prepared to help anyone both on and off the pitch. The legacy he has left will remain with us on the pitch for years to come.

"On behalf of everyone associated with our club, and the rugby community, I extend our deepest sympathy to his partner Julie and family."

Mark leaves behind Julie and four children.

His funeral will take place on Friday, with the service at St Peter's Church in Droitwich getting underway at 10am and all are very welcome to attend. The service will be followed by a private family service at the crematorium.

Droitwich Rugby Club have made their facilities available and are providing refreshments after the church service to all who are able to attend.

Also, it has been suggested that players who have been coached by Mark over the years may wish to attend in the colours of the clubs they now play for - to emphasise the sheer scale of his influence.