TRIBUTES have flooded in following the death of a “Mid Wales rugby legend” who has been described as “one in a million”.

The death of Dai Powell, a stalwart of Knighton’s Tref-y-Clawdd Rugby Club, was announced by the club on Friday, October 4.

A post on the Tref-y-Clawdd RFC Facebook page attracted over 80 comments, with Mr Powell described as a great player on the field and a lovely man off it, with one person describing him as an “inspirational coach, player and person”.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our friend and club stalwart Dai Powell, a former player, coach and chairman of Tref-y-Clawdd RFC,” the club said in Friday’s post, accompanied by a picture of Mr Powell.

“Our thoughts go out to Dai’s family and friends.”

The post triggered a wave of warm comments from people who had met and known Mr Powell over the years.

A post from Llandrindod Wells Rugby Club described him as a “true Mid Wales rugby legend”, with Barrie Philpott, of Bishops Castle RFC, described him as “a very hard man on the pitch and a top man off it”.

Mark Williams said: “Had many good battles against him on the rugby pitch for Rhayader RFC and many great pints with him in the clubhouse after.”

Bob Jones said: “So sad to hear this, a great player but more importantly a lovely man.”

Phill David said of Mr Powell: “The most inspirational coach, player and person you could ever wish to meet, Dai was one in a million.”

An account posting under the name of Mid Wales Rugby said: “Dave was chairman of Mid Wales District whilst I was secretary and I found him to be such a kind and fun person, a true gentleman. Truly one of life's good guys.”

Sharron Smith described Mr Powell as a “Knighton legend”.

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It is believed that Mr Powell, who lived near Dutlas, Knighton, passed away peacefully at St Michaels Hospice, Bartestree, on October 1, aged 62.

The father-of-three’s funeral will take place at St Edwards Church, Knighton, on Friday, October 18, at 12.30pm.

While many people posting have fond memories of playing alongside Dai, many youngsters who grew up playing for the club remember Mr Powell as a brilliant coach.

“It was an honour to play alongside and be coached by Dai. A true legend,” said Rhodri Lewis.

Ted Davies, now a player at Builth RFC, said: “A true gentleman. He was the first coach I ever had playing for Knighton U14s. What a legend. Such a big loss for the club.”

Nick Davies said: “Such a legend of a man, one of the very best. Had some of the funniest rugby memories with Dave. And a great man outside of it.”

Joel Bayliss added: “Absolute legend of a man. He was brilliant running the under 19 side in late 2000’s, most fun I ever had playing rugby.”