A MEMORIAL rugby match was held on Saturday in tribute to a talented Chepstow rugby player who died aged just 28.

Neill Allmark, from Caldicot, played as the blindside flanker on the first team for Chepstow Rugby Club for around 10 years before he passed away on Friday, January 9.

Crowds of people attended the friendly match between Caldicot and Chepstow at Chepstow Rugby Ground on Saturday, with Mr Allmark’s family also watching the game.

A minute silence was held before the match kicked off at 2.30 as a mark of respect to Mr Allmark, who was known as Nellie, and flowers lined the pitch.

Nicole Allmark, Neill’s mum, said: “He was marvellous, the best son anybody could have. He was a gentleman, everybody’s friend and always there for you.

“He would support anybody who needed it and now the club have turned their support to us now, it’s tremendous.

“I just want to thank the club. They have been marvellous, very very supportive. They’ve been there every step of the way.”

It is understood Mr Allmark, who worked for Monmouthshire Council as a duty officer at Chepstow Leisure Centre, died in a heart hospital in England on Friday.

He had been playing competitive rugby until recently, with his last game just before Christmas.

Rugby clubs from across Gwent have paid tribute to the player including Abertillery BG, Usk and Magor.

Newport Gwent Dragons hooker Rhys Buckley wore a black armband against the Ospreys at the Liberty Stadium in tribute to Mr Allmark who was his former captain in Caldicot.

The captain of Chepstow Rugby Club, said: “I’ll remember Neill as a best friend. He would have loved to have been a part of this.

“We’ve tried our best to be here for the family. Caldicot have been fantastic and have showed their support.”