Tributes to 'loved' rugby player killed in crash

Tributes have been paid to a "much-loved" husband, father, son and teammate who died in a car crash.

Tristan Price, from the Isle of Wight, was a keen rugby player and member of Ventnor Rugby Club.

He was known as the "beast" among the rugby community and his teammates have described him as "a devoted family man and a cherished friend".

Price died after emergency services were called to an incident on Whitwell Road, near its junction with Roud Road at about 20:30 GMT on Saturday 3 January.

David Metcalfe, president of the Isle of Wight Rugby Football Club (IWRFC) said he first met Price when coaching the Vectis Under 17 Rugby.

He said: "Tristan was a quiet, yet very effective prop, always giving of his best for the team and always a popular player.

"Since then I have played against him on a number of occasions, he was a very competitive yet enjoyable opponent."

"A true gentleman and committed clubman, he will be missed by many both in the Rugby community and outside of it," he added.

A spokesperson for Ventnor Rugby Club said: "He was more than just a player or supporter of the club, he was a friend, a teammate, and a constant source of positivity.

"His passion for rugby, his loyalty to Ventnor, and the kindness he showed to everyone around him left a lasting impact."

The Club are raising funds to help "ease the burden" on his family and serve as a tribute to him.

Price was a doorman for several venues in Newport and a tribute on social media said he was a "constant presence, a familiar face, and a true club man in every sense".

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