A COMMUNITY has been devastated by the sudden death of a talented rugby player while on holiday with his fiancee.

Father-of-two Paul Fitt, 36, from Bishop Auckland, is believed to have died of an asthma attack while attending a friend's wedding in Cyprus with his bride-to-be.

Paul had played for rugby teams in Bishop Auckland, Newton Aycliffe and Shildon.

A friend, who played alongside him, but wished to remain nameless, said: "The whole town of Shildon is totally devastated by his death. People still can't take it in.

"He was a popular lad in Shildon, Newton Aycliffe and Bishop Auckland. He had a great many friends. He was the life and soul of the party.

"As a rugby player, he was probably one of the best to have come out of Bishop Auckland. He was an all-round sportsman and totally committed to fitness. He'll be sadly missed by a lot of people."

Paul worked at commercial vehicle company Wear Valley Commercials, in Coundon Gate, the family business which he was due to take over in four years.

Paul was also a keen motorcyclist and footballer and played for a Shildon club.

He started playing rugby at Shildon about ten years ago and progressed to the Newton Aycliffe team, then Bishop Auckland Rugby Club.

Chairman of the Bishop Auckland club, Ron Williamson, said: "Members were devastated when the news came through. I know Paul had suffered asthma and we always had an inhaler on the touchline.

"He was fast and graceful on the rugby field, but a smashing lad off the field as well."

Paul's funeral took place at St Andrew's Church, South Church, on Friday and he was cremated at Durham crematorium. The funeral was attended by about 400 people.

Paul leaves behind a teenage son and daughter