MEMBERS of a local rugby club are planning to play tribute to a former player who has died suddenly.

Stephen Power - known to everyone as Sam - died suddenly at home in Stonegallows, Taunton, on March 14.

The cause of death is currently unascertained.

Sam, who was 58, had played rugby and cricket for Wiveliscombe, as well as cricket for Lydeard St Lawrence.

The rugby club's Rachael Sharland said: "For me, I remember a big smile from a true rugby gent."

He is survived by his three children, Wayne, Nicholas and Danny, his brother, parents and grandchildren.

Wiveliscombe Rugby Club hope to organise a memorial match followed by a pig roast at some stage next season.

Wiveliscombe Rugby Club members are hoping to be able to meet up at their home ground to wave off the hearse as it leaves the club at 1pm on Wednesday (April 1).

They would of course  maintain a two-metre social disctancing gap between each other given the current coronavirus restrictions.

The funeral service is taking place at Taunton Deane Crematorium at 2pm.

Mourners will be wearing rugby or cricket attire.

Donations in lieu of flowers should be made to Wiveliscombe Rugby Club via Anthony James Funeral Director, Broad Meadow View, Wiveliscombe TA4 2TB.

There is an option of viewing the service on www.Obitus.com - details are available on the rugby club's website.