Tributes pour in after it is revealed that Wigan borough rugby player died in holiday swimming pool accident

Ben Woods, 21, played rugby for Leigh East’s open age team and was on holiday with his family in Cyprus at the time of the tragedy.

He was found unconscious at the bottom of the pool at the King Evelthon Hotel in Paphos on Tuesday July 5.

He was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead a short time later.

Ben’s brother Josh is the scrum-half and stand-off for Newcastle Thunder and had previously played for Wigan Warriors and Leigh Centurions.

Rugby clubs along with family and friends took to social media to pay their respects.

Leigh East said: “It is with the greatest sadness we have to announce the passing of Ben Woods one of our young Open Age players after an accident while on holiday with his family.

"Ben had played at Leigh East from a very young age and had progressed through the age groups to become a valuable member of our club.

"Ben was always there with a cheeky smile and will be sorely missed.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to Mick, Mel and Josh, his family and friends at this saddest of times. RIP young man you will never be forgotten.”

Mia Okoli said: “I am absolutely heartbroken.

"Anyone who met Ben knows he lit up every room he walked into.

“Your infectious smile will be missed so much by everyone cause you was such a positive part of so many peoples lives.

"My thoughts are with your family and our friends. I’m just so thankful and feel so lucky to have known you.”

Chairman of Leigh Centurions, Mike Latham added: “On behalf of everyone at the club, we send our most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Ben Woods, brother of our former player Josh, on their tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.”

Andy Lloyd said: “Absolutely devastated to hear about young Ben Woods honestly one of the nicest lads you could ever wish to meet.

"Thinking of Josh and all the Woods family at this terrible time. The world is definitely a duller place without Ben. RIP mate.”

Ben’s brother Josh added: “The best person ever. My brother, my best friend and my hero.

"I love you so much and just want this be a nightmare. Fly high up there Ben RIP.”

Wigan Warriors and Newcastle Thunder have also offered their condolences.

Warriors said: “From us all at Wigan Warriors, we send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Ben Woods, brother of former Warrior Josh, on their tragic loss.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this awful time.”

Newcastle Thunder added: “Everyone at Newcastle Thunder extends their deepest sympathies to our player Josh Woods, following the death of his brother Ben.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Josh, his family and Ben’s friends at this incredibly difficult time.

“The club will be supporting Josh and his family and will be making no further public statements.

“We also politely request that the Woods’ family’s privacy is respected at this deeply sad time.”