WIVELISCOMBE Rugby Club have announced the ‘devastating news of the passing of our dear friend’ Colin Mogford.

In a statement the club says: “Colin was an ever-present and highly thought of member. As well as playing for many years, he went on to be a respected referee. He also coached and ran the club’s Colts’ team for a number of seasons once his whistle blowing days came to an end and held the post of club chairman, among other roles, in the early to mid 90s.”

The present club chairman Gary Sharland said: “Colin will be sadly missed but not forgotten, but I will especially miss the first thing you used to say to me when we met in the clubhouse, 'Chairman, can I get you a pint?’.

The funeral service will be held at Taunton Crematorium on Monday, November 16, at 2.00pm., and mourners are encouraged to wear Wivey rugby club colours. Donations to St Margaret's Hospice.