SPORTS clubs in Denbighshire have paid tribute to a man whose 'smile and humour will be fondly remembered by all who met him'.

Paul Messham, affectionately known as 'Big Paulie', was well-known in the Denbigh area - particularly in the sport community, having represented many a club in the town.

The 36-year-old died on Tuesday, February 15 following a long battle with ill health.

In a tribute on Twitter, the Denbigh & District Darts League said: "It's with great sadness we hear of the devastating passing of Paul Messham.

"Known affectionately as Big Paulie he was a larger than life character and was a popular lad on the local darts scene representing The Brit, The Railway, The Hand and The Llindir amongst others.

"Paulie also represented Denbigh at Superleague level turning out for The Masons over the years.

"Our thoughts go out to his family and close friends at this horrendous time.

"Sleep tight mate."

Clwb Rygbi Dinbych also paid tribute to Mr Messham and said: "A big man with a big smile, sleep tight Paul Messham.

"It is with great sadness that Clwb Rygbi Dinbych has learnt of the passing of former tight-head prop Paul Messham.

"Paul began his rugby career at Caeau Les Phillips aged 14 and soon showed that strength and power weren’t his only rugby attributes as he displayed an impressive range of passing for a front row forward - he always used to say he had 'the best hands in the club'."

Mr Messham developed through the junior and youth sections at the club to make the step up to Dinbych's senior set-up.

"Whatever team he was a part of, Paul could always be relied upon to crack a joke and keep team spirits high.

"For over a decade Paul honed his trade at the coal face and became a formidable scrummager, facing teams from all over Wales and further afield."

He was also a goalkeeper for Denbigh Town Football Club and Denbigh Hockey Club, while his talents also transferred to the middle as he played for Denbigh Cricket Club.

The rugby club added: "Paul’s smile and humour will be fondly remembered by all who met him and his beloved Denbigh a darker place following his loss at such a young age.

"On behalf of everyone at Clwb Rygbi Dinbych, our heartfelt condolences go out to Emma, Bryn and the boys. Sam, Matty and the girls, and to all of Paul’s family and friends at this difficult time.

"Cwsg yn Dawel Paulie."

In its tribute, Denbigh Town Football Club said: "The club, like the rest of the town, were upset to hear the news of 36 year old Denbigh character Paul Messham passing away after being unwell.

"Our condolences to all his family and friends some of whom play for the present Denbigh Town team. It is so sad.

"Paul was a formidable rugby player but has been involved in practically every sports club in the town.

"He was a goalkeeper with Denbigh Town Reserves when he was in his twenties but also played for other sports clubs including Denbigh hockey club and Denbigh cricket club.

"He was also a top darts player representing a number of teams including the Masons Arms in the Superleague.

"Until his health started failing, Paul used to come down to Central Park and, although he was a follower of Denbigh Town, he was there to watch and support his close mate KP (Kristian Pierce) who we know will miss him terribly.

"The town has lost a character that is for sure.

"RIP Big Paulie."