TRIBUTES have been paid to a former rugby coach, who has died aged just 52.

Alex Barbour, of Little Oakley, died on March 3 following a long illness.

Mr Barbour was a member of Clacton Rugby Club for a number of years and helped set up the club’s current youth team.

Club spokesman Colin Garrod said: “Alex was a great servant of the game.

“He will be sorely missed by everyone that knew him.”

A funeral service takes place at St Mary and St Michael Church in Mistley on Friday **March 28** at 10.30 am, followed by a private cremation.