RUGBY stalwart and top coach Mark Edwards died following a suspected heart-attack after playing in a rugby game at Droitwich on Saturday.

A news story appears on page 15, but Mel Dawson, of the Malvern Angels, wanted this tribute to appear on the sports pages.

She writes on behalf of the Angels' squad:

"In January Malvern Rugby Club had a unique opportunity when they were joined by a rugby coach of some standing, Mark Edwards, who was to coach the ladies team known as Malvern Angels.

"Mark from the beginning shared the vision to build a team strong enough to enter the league forum of the RFUW. This he set about doing in his own unique way, Mark offered each squad member the time, support and inspiration to play rugby to the best of their ability.

"He videoed training and matches so he could analyse their styles of play and mould these individuals into the developing team he knew they could be.

"Mark had a love of rugby that was contagious his commitment was awesome and in the last nine months the ladies numbers have increased from eight to a squad of 31.

"They have entered the league and have proved that all the work has been worth it by heading the table with some impressive victories, all directed by Mark.

"If working with the Angels was not enough for Mark he also took the 'baby angels' under his wing and has set up under 14s and 17s.

"Mark was always involved in the social side of the Angels, driving to Llangoed in June for a 7s tournament.

In a pre-season team-building weekend Mark joined the Angels canoeing on the River Seven.

Mark Edwards - a friend, an inspiration, a unique man."