Former Bath back-rower Tony Brooks has passed away.
The 57-year-old died at home while watching his beloved rugby on TV on Sunday night, his family have said.
Tributes from former team-mates, fellow coaches and parents of youngsters he coached spoke of a “gentleman”, “mentor” and “true legend”.
It’s with broken hearts that we share the news that the wonderful @brooksie8888 died last night – at home with the rugby on tele. No words can describe how much he’ll be missed. The Brooksies ❤️ 11/03/18 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/ehRHWeKjII
— Tony Brooks (@brooksie8888) March 12, 2018
We have lost one of the loveliest human beings to have walked the planet. Tony Brooks. #RIP @maidsrfc Truly Heartbroken for the Brooks family. pic.twitter.com/sqhxL1L8KW
— Will Greenwood (@WillGreenwood) March 12, 2018
His list of representative honours on Maidenhead Rugby Club’s Hall of Fame web page includes the Barbarians and England U23s.
Posting on Tony’s Twitter page, they said: “It’s with broken hearts that we share the news that the wonderful brooksie8888 died last night – at home with the rugby on tele.
“No words can describe how much he’ll be missed.”
Absolutely shocked to hear of passing of Tony @brooksie8888 DoR @maidsrfc driving force and father-figure to our colts, larger-than-life, great mate, banter-buddy, ex R Park Bath England B. Massive family man. Irreplaceable in so many lives.
— Stephen Jones (@stephenjones9) March 12, 2018
After attending Plymouth College and Oxford University, Tony played for Bath and Rosslyn Park.
Weight 17.5st in his prime, Tony made his Blue, Black and White debut against Otley in April 1982 and the last of his 16 appearances against Glamorgan Wanderers two years later.
He also represented England under-19s, under-23s and the Barbarians invitational side.