David Duckham dead at 76: Former England rugby star passes away

FORMER England rugby star David Duckham has died aged 76.

Tributes have poured in for the former player, who was given an MBE for his services to rugby.

One of his former teams, Coventry Rugby, hailed him as one of the club's greatest ever players.

Duckham played for local club Coventry between 1967 and 1979, making almost 200 appearances.

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The star, who played at centre, quickly became known for his quick movement and ability to get past opponents.

He made 36 appearances for England between 1969 and 1976 and appeared three time for the England and Irish Lions.

That brief period with the Lions coincided with their successful 1971 tour of New Zealand and Australia where England won the series against the All Blacks.

The win is still the only time the tourists have claimed a series victory over the All Blacks.

Tributes have poured in for the former player.

Coventry Rugby tweeted: "Coventry Rugby is incredibly sad to learn of the news that David Duckham; ex Coventry, England and British and Irish Lions player, has died, aged 76. 

"Donned as arguably the ‘greatest’ ever Coventry player, our thoughts go out to David’s family at this difficult time.

"The club will demonstrate a minute’s silence prior to kick-off at this Saturday’s match against Jersey and will be looking to organise a celebration of life for David, subject to conversations with the family."

The Coventry Rugby Supporters' Club added their voice to the tributes.

They said: "Painful and desperately sad news to share. Cov, England, British Lion and fabled Barbarian, David Duckham, passed away last night in St Thomas’s Hospital.

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"Our sympathies and condolences to Jean Duckham, his family and friends. A true legend of British rugby."

Rugby fans on social media also reflected on Duckham's sad passing.

One said: "Shocked at the news. My favourite player of all time. Coventry’s greatest Rugby Union player in my opinion. Condolences to all who knew him.