TRIBUTES have been paid to an 'inspirational' Vale of Clwyd rugby coach who has died.

Tim O'Shea, from Denbigh, was for many years a youth coach at Clwb Rygbi Dinbych and tributes have been pouring in.

Clwb Rygbi Dinbych said: "It is with profound sadness that the club has learnt of the passing of one of its most respected and much loved coaches Tim O'Shea.

"Tim was an incredibly popular coach who guided players of all ages to pull on the jersey of Clwb Rygbi Dinbych and play the great sport of rugby union.

"His kind, warm personality touched everyone he met and will be forever remembered by those who came to know him.

"Our deepest condolences go out to Tim's wife Paula and children, Sarah, Emma, Helen and Jon.

"Rest in peace Tim."

Former rugby club chairman and president Jeff Jenkins said: "First and foremost, Tim was a gentleman in every sense of that word.

"He was kind, generous, friendly and approachable with never a bad word for anyone.

"He was associated with Clwb Rygbi Dinbych over several decades and throughout that time he was a respected and loyal member who concentrated on the development of the club's younger players.

"He also played an important part off the field on the club's executive committee specialising on the running of the clubhouse."

Mr Jenkins added: "Tim was an inspirational coach of all age groups through the minis to the juniors to the youth, with the ability to encourage and empathise with the youngsters, not only developing their rugby skills but equally importantly instilling his values regarding life in general.

"He was the chairman of the mini / junior section for several years and during that time also initiated a girls / ladies team in the club, two members of which, Susan Bagnall and Mari Tomos, went on to represent Wales.

"As a result of the time and dedicated effort which he gave in support of the club he was awarded the prestigious Denbighshire volunteer of the year accolade in 2003-04."

Former Dinbych chairman Terry Bryer said: "Enjoyment of the game is considered just as important as attaining excellence and players of all ages enjoy membership of a club that offers something for everyone.

"Tim O'Shea certainly bought into that philosophy when he became chair of the mini junior section in the autumn of 2001 having been involved in the club as vice-chair and coach for almost five years before that.

"Whatever task he undertook he did with a lovely smile on his face."

Mr Bryer added: "There was no doubt all the youngsters he managed and coached thoroughly enjoyed his infectious enthusiasm, sense of humour and happy demeanour.

"Throughout this time, his wife Paula and his children Emma, Sarah, Helen and Jonathan were also an integral part of the club and gave him their support at all times.

"As a club, we extend our deepest sympathy to them in their great loss."

As well as rugby, Mr O'Shea was also a prominent figure on the football pitch.

In paying tribute, Henllan FC Tweeted: "Sad to hear about the passing of one of Henllan's finest players of the 1970s and 80s.

"Not only that, he was such a nice person, RIP Tim O'Shea."