Paul Swaddle, 52, a stalwart of Jarrovians Rugby Club for 25 years, was captaining the second team at Lukes Lane, Hebburn, when he fell to the ground.

Dave McLeod, an ex-chairman of Jarrovians, said: "We had scored a try and were just walking back when Paul suddenly collapsed.

"He was unconscious for about two minutes and was later taken to South Tyneside District Hospital, where the doctors couldn't find anything wrong with him.

"But Paul collapsed again at work the next week, and that's when it was realised he had a brain tumour."

Variously described by fellow players as "a great guy" and "always enthusiastic", the much-liked player successfully rebuilt the club's second team.

Mr Swaddle, from St Rollox Street, Hebburn, lost his wife, Carol to a long illness several years ago.

He played as a flanker with Jarrovians from the early 1980s. Mr Swaddle was diagnosed with a brain tumour after collapsing about six weeks ago.

Friend and fellow player Bryan McCoy said: "Paul was very enthusiastic about his rugby and would always want to talk about how he'd enjoyed a game.

"I think he will be remembered most for all for his enthusiasm for the game and the pleasure he got from his rugby."

Mr Swaddle leaves two daughters, Julie and Elaine.

He worked in many shipyards on the Tyne, and was latterly employed by a company which produces pool tables.

"I've known Paul since he joined the club. He always led by example and his enthusiasm was terrific.

"My abiding memory of Paul was how he cajoled and persuaded players until he had successfully rebuilt our second team, after an awful season when we didn't even have a second squad.

"Through really hard work, Paul got the second team working again. He just loved the game.

"We were talking after he died and one of the lads described Paul as 'the nicest guy at the club'.

"That's exactly right and he'll be a big miss," Mr McLeod added.

A service for Mr Swaddle will be held at South Shields Crematorium at 1.30pm tomorrow.

His many friends are later invited back to The Clock pub, in Victoria Road East, Hebburn.