BILL Best, one of the stalwarts of Worcester Rugby Club, has died aged 61 after a short battle with cancer.

Mr Best played his rugby at Bevere in the 1960s, as a loyal member of the "social" sides that specialised in the art of coarse rugby.

When the club moved to its new premises at Sixways, Mr Best became something of a fixture, as within a few years he was resident in the club flat and was the club secretary for 15 years.

"His generosity, goodwill and hospitality were legendary among his friends," said Worcester solicitor David Hallmark. Bill knew the importance of friendship as he was a Barnardo's baby, adopted and brought up in Worcester and schooled at Worcester King's School. Bill continued to support the Barnardo's Children's Charity throughout his life."

From school, Mr Best started a career in accountancy.

His first appointment was with Bristol Street Motors in Birmingham during an era when he shared a flat with other rugby club pals Malcolm Baggott, Johnny Pickup and David Hallmark.

He worked in the accounts department of several local firms including Everton Travel in Droitwich, alongside rugby colleagues Dave Robins and Tony Halford, after which he had a spell on his own as a project manager.

He joined Mint Holdings for their conversion of St Mary's Church, Worcester, before becoming the company secretary for the Best Western Bank House Hotel Golf and Country Club in Bransford for 15 years.

He was married to his wife Pat (Trish) for 26 years, enjoying family life and helping with her sugar craft and beauty therapy businesses.

"This was the man who had everything," said Mrs Best.

"You only had to look into his car to see it. There was every possible gadget one could imagine and Bill was always keen to add more.

"His model railway that he was so proud of had every type of engine and carriage. He loved life and lived it well but his family and friends always came first."

Mr Best's funeral service will be held at Redditch Crematorium at 2pm tomorrow, after which will follow a celebration of his life at Worcester Rugby Club at 3pm.