A rugby player who was seriously hurt while scoring a try during a match has died.
Evesham Rugby Club player Jack Jeffery, 27, was taken to hospital after being injured in the Seniors League game against Berkswell and Balsall. Club chair Dave Summerfield said that the players were reeling, saying it was such a terrible shock.
His father Glenn said: "Jack died doing what he loved the most, playing rugby". Posting on Facebook, he wrote: "It is with great sadness that I need to let you know we lost our beloved son Jack yesterday."
He described him as the "most kind hearted, generous and beautiful son who enriched the lives of everyone who was lucky to know and have met him. He will be so missed by his family and friends," he said.
A flag was flown at half-mast at Evesham Rugby Club as a mark of respect for who Mr Summerfield described as a “very popular player.” He said that the accident had affected the players greatly.
He went on to say: "As a club, we have been overwhelmed by the messages of support and goodwill from the rugby community. Jack was calm, respected and highly thought of. Our club and community have lost such a bright light."
A statement on the club's website said that Mr Jeffery, who lived in London, was adding another try to his phenomenal record" and was injured in an accident on the pitch as he scored.
It added: "He would often return from London for training and was always at the heart of club activities. He served his club, his teammates and the county with distinction and provided much satisfaction to the club supporters in knowing exactly where the whitewash (try line) was."
Premiership side Worcester Warriors tweeted a message of condolence to his family, friends and teammates. In a tweet the RFU (Rugby Football Union) said it extended its heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends of the player.
It added: "The thoughts of everyone in the game are with Evesham Rugby Football Club, their players, members and the wider rugby community."
Evesham thanked everyone who had supported Mr Jeffery and for the messages of support received from other clubs.