Tributes have been paid from across the rugby region to John Mackay, former chair and president of Wymondham RFC - and a leading administrator of the sport in Norfolk and Eastern Counties.

John, who was 73, collapsed and died on his way home to Norfolk from watching Wymondham’s 1st XV win away at Rochford RFC in Essex.

Paul Wootton, chair of Wymondham RFC, led the tributes to John’s huge contribution to the sport and to his club.

“His love and support for Wymondham knew no bounds,” he said.

“He was one of the kindest and most loyal people I knew. I have been inundated with messages of support from current and former players, other clubs and those who knew John. He has left a huge mark and has left behind many friends.

“‘Club legend’ is a phrase used all too often but no one deserves that description more than John.”

Wymondham secured double promotion in John’s last year as club president and, after standing down, he took over the running of the travelling supporters’ group at the club. His last day was spent watching Wymondham’s 1st XV beat Rochford 24-27.

His contribution to rugby was marked by a minute’s applause from players and hundreds of supporters at two games - the first saw Norfolk beat Cambridgeshire in an Eastern Counties Tri-Counties fixture switched to Wymondham in honour of John, and again at Wymondham 1st XV’s next home game at the club.