Tributes have poured in for a 56-year-old rugby stalwart described as “irreplaceable”.

Richard Atkinson, of Keswick, died suddenly on Saturday afternoon, in the clubhouse of Keswick Rugby Club.

Surrounded by friends and family at the time, emergency services were unable to help.

Known as a giant of a man, secretary for the club Liz Weightman said: “Richard was a big part of the club, his children play here and he was on the committee.

“He was a giant of a man and was always cheerful. Losing him has left a huge hole in the club and he was a larger than life character and will be sorely missed, not only in Keswick but in all the rugby world.”

Mr Atkinson, known to friends as Biggus, worked hard to bring money into the club and was integral to the relationship between KRFC and Corstorphine Cougars RFC based in Edinburgh.

A spokesman from Corstorphine Cougars said: “Biggus was a huge part of the relationship between Corstorphine and Keswick and his bigger than life character will be irreplaceable.

“He was often a visitor outside of tours to Union Park. It’s just a monumental loss to all who knew him.”

Hundreds of messages of condolence poured in on social media. Chris Harps said: “It’s such devastating news. There will only ever be one Biggus, an absolute legend and lovely man.”

Shocked by the loss Colin Smith, said: “I’m totally devastated and still can’t believe it. Such a lovely fella and a great friend. He will be sadly missed but never forgotten.”

Saddened by the news, David Thomas reached out saying: “It’s such sad and devastating news. Richard was the epitome of rugby and Keswick RFC, such a great character, friendly, welcoming and someone you always wanted to enjoy some craic with both at the club and also in the town.”

Unable to digest the sad news, Carl Thompson said: “This is so unbelievably sad it just won’t sink in. I have so many great memories down at Keswick club with Biggus he was such a great friend my thoughts go to his family.”

Fond memories were on Ian McGrath’s mind. He said: “I’m heartbroken to hear this, Richard was always the same, a warm welcome quickly followed by a good ribbing of why supporting Scotland was such a ridiculous idea.”