THE death of Eddie Butler, the voice of Welsh rugby, has sparked an outpouring of grief across the country.

The former Wales international turned commentator passed away while participating in a charity event in Peru last night.

Welshpool's Gary Williams was among the thousands of people who met Mr Butler during his long career as a broadcaster.

Mr Williams said: "So sad to hear of the passing of Eddie Butler, I really thought a lot of this fella."

Mr Williams shared memories of meeting the legend and admitted to beings starstruck.

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He said: "On my first visit to the WRU Media Centre on a match day, it was like the first day in the high school, I didn't know anybody, was like a fish out of water and just staring open mouthed at what was happening around me.

"Journalists were tapping away on their laptops, photographers were chatting about their latest trips to the Brazilian Grand Prix or something like that."

It was then that Mr Williams remembered seeing the man known as the voice of Welsh rugby among the journalists.

He said: "Eddie Butler was walking around the room, plate of grub stacked high, not quite as high as mine as you can imagine, and he asked if he could join me.

"I had a quick look around in case he was talking to somebody else and then, gobsmacked, nodded and down he sat.

"I then enjoyed a super half hour of chat about what I can't recall but the moment will stay with me forever."

Mr Williams said the fact Mr Butler died while abroad fundraising epitomised a great man.

"He has been taken away far too early at 65," said Mr Williams. "Typical of the great man, he was out on the mountains of Peru raising money for charity when he passed away. He will be sorely missed."