THE chairman of a rugby club, which lost one of its leading members in a horrific crash in South Africa, has paid a moving tribute to him.

Andrew Riches, 48, vice president of Westcliff Rugby Club, died in a head-on smash on a rain-lashed road in Johannesburg last Thursday.

The former Lloyds underwriter had taken up a new post there just weeks before.

Rick Compton, chairman of the club, said: “Andy has been a valued member of the club since his days as a youth in the Seventies. He was a gifted player who played for our first team in the Eighties.

“He has been an ardent supporter and contributor to the club since those days, as well as a much-loved and respected honorary vice president.

“In more recent times, he has been an active member of the board of directors during an exciting time for the club, and his enthusiasm in working on our behalf to raise funds and attract sponsorship has been productive and invaluable.”

Mr Compton added: “It was only at the turn of the year he stepped down from these duties in order to pursue business interests in South Africa.

“My own experience with Andy dates back to those early days when we were team mates in the club’s 1st XV, as well as enthusiastic representatives of the club on unforgettable tours abroad.

“It was a pleasure also to work alongside him on the club’s board of directors.

“All of Andy’s friends at the club are shocked by this tragedy, but we are resolved to remember him with huge fondness and affection.

“We offer our deepest sympathies to his family and all those who knew him, as well as those unfortunate others directly affected by this awful accident.”

Mr Riches had been travelling from Durban to Johannesburg on Thursday when his Audi hit a Range Rover carrying a family of five. Mr Richards was killed on impact and a four-year-old child also died.

Arrangements for Mr Riches funeral have yet to be finalised.