DENBIGH Rugby Club has paid tribute to one of its most “loyal” and “respected” members who died recently.

Club President Tegid Phillips hailed Peter Minshull, who was in his mid-70's and lived in the town, a "friendly giant".

Mr Phillips added: "To put it simply, Peter was a clubman through and through. When he was playing, it didn't matter if it was for the first, second, third or fourth team, he always gave it his all.

"As a touch judge, he was very honest, to the point where he would even give decisions against his side if he had to. You certainly can't say that about many people, it's a rare quality.

"Peter always liked to do things to the highest standard, no matter what that might be.

"His wife Marilyn also played hockey at the same time he played rugby and so you could say they were both a big part of the sporting culture within the town of Denbigh."

Mr Minshull, also a former member of Rhyl rugby club, first became a part of Denbigh Rugby Club in the later 1970's.

In a social media post on Monday, Denbigh Rugby Club shared some of its fondest memories of Mr Minshull, who had held several positions within the club over the years.

The statement added: “Peter’s towering height saw him occupy a position in Clwb Rygbi Dinbych’s second row for several years. Captaining the 2nd, 3rd and 4th XV at varying times during his long playing career.

“Peter was keen to see the Club progress off and on the field, elected Clerk of Works during the development of the Clubhouse back in 1981 and was to become a joint Vice Chairman for the newly amalgamated Clwb Rygbi Dinbych in 1993.

“It was only very recently that Peter had to call time on his role as Coaching Co-Ordinator, always eager to see players and parents progress into the world of Coaching.”

The club spokesperson added that Mr Minshull would “travel all over in support of the club he loved”, often turning down the opportunity to enjoy the game so that he could run the line - where he was “eagle eyed, but always fair.”

They continued: “Full of support for the players regardless of the outcome, Peter would rarely miss a game and was happy to socialise with players old and new.

“He will be deeply missed at Clwb Rygbi Dinbych and on behalf of the club our heartfelt condolences go out to Peter’s wife Marilyn at this difficult time. Rest in Peace Peter.”