FORMER Coventry, England and British and Irish Lions rugby player David Duckham has died, aged 76.
Born in the city in 1946, Duckham attended King Henry VIII Grammar School and went on to become a local hero, making almost 200 appearances for Coventry between 1967 and 1979.
He played 36 games for England, scoring ten tries, and made 17 appearances for the British and Irish Lions in Australia and New Zealand.
He was famously part of the 1971 British and Irish Lions side that secured a series victory against the All Blacks.
Duckham was also awarded an MBE for his services to rugby.
Coventry Rugby led the tributes to Duckham, describing him as arguably the greatest ever Coventry player.
The club added they will be holding a minute’s silence before kick-off at this Saturday’s match against Jersey and will be looking to organise a celebration of his life once discussed with his family.
RFU President Nigel Gillingham added: “David Duckham was not only one of the greatest and most talented of English players, but also a player so greatly admired around the world.”
Duckham made his England debut in 1969 at centre against Ireland alongside John Spencer.
He said: “It was an honour to be David’s partner on the pitch.
“He was one of the greatest ever players with ball in hand and a pivotal part of the Lions success in 1971, the only Lions tour that ever won in New Zealand.
“He was widely respected by players around the world and was a gentle, kind man, with a great sense of humour.
“David will be hugely missed by all who knew him.”
Rugby World Cup winner Jason Leonard described Duckham as one of England rugby’s finest players and great characters.
He added: “I spent many an hour with David at events all over the world and it was an absolute joy to be in his company.”
