Llandovery RFC has expressed its "massive regret and heartfelt sadness" at the tragic death of hugely popular clubman Arwel Davies in a road accident last week.

“Arwel Penlan” or “Arwel Ad-Clad” represented the club at youth and senior level, and played a key role in keeping the second XV going through challenging times.

In true rugby spirit, he stepped forward to coach the next generation of players, and had a big influence on the Junior Drovers, for whom he was appointed vice chairman.

As well as rugby, he adopted his father's passion of air ballooning, bringing joy to the many who had seen him in his beloved balloon, drifting high above the Towy valley.

On one Sunday session, on a whim, he gave the Junior Drovers the chance to enjoy the spectacle of his beloved hot air balloon, rising into the air above Church Bank.

A statement, issued jointly by Llandovery RFC chairman Peter Rees and Junior Dovers chairman Carwyn Jones, described how the players looked up "with smiles on their faces."

"The skies above Llanwrda will be that little bit emptier now," the statement noted on the Llandovery RFC website.

It read: "The devastating news that we received on Thursday afternoon, 8th July 2021, has brought grown men to tears, such was the affection we have for Arwel, Laura, Owen and Sofia.

"We of course pass on our very sincerest condolences to Laura and the entire Davies family.

"The Penlan family have been associated with Llandovery RFC for at least three generations and Arwel was truly a son of the club.

"He epitomised everything that is positive about our club, our community and certainly the Davies family."

It added: "Arwel stepped forward to coach the next generation and joined the coaching team of the Llandovery Junior Drovers.

"From the very first week, Arwel’s vast rugby experience shone through, shaping the team into a very competent and well drilled side.

"The most important legacy Arwel leaves with his team, is the enjoyment of the game.

"He coached with a smile on his face, and had encouraging words for every member of the team.

"Arwel was elected to the role of Junior Drovers Vice-Chairman, a testament to the respect with which he was held. In true Arwel style, he committed himself fully to that role.

"We are sure everyone associated with the Drovers will be taking a few moments of their own time to reflect on how we have lost a great young man.

"Our loss can only be a fraction of that felt by Laura, Owen, Sofia, Ioan, Catrin, Eirian and Martin."