TRIBUTES have been paid from across the sports world and beyond to rugby commentator, broadcaster, writer and former Wales captain Eddie Butler after his sudden death on a charity trek in South America.

The shock news that the 65-year-old Raglan-based father-of-six had passed away at a campsite on the Inca trail left rugby-commentating colleagues like Brian Moore and Jonathan Davies devastated.

Players and people from across the world of broadcasting hailed his ‘lyricism’ on screen and page that effortlessly captured the moment, alongside his kindness and generosity.

Monmouthshire through and through, he was also remembered at Monmouth School, where he captained the successful 1st XV under coach Rod Sealy in the early 1970s, and the town’s rugby club, of whom he was patron.

Just days before his passing in Peru, his broadcast on the global reaction to the news of the Queen’s death underlined his special status as a multi-dimensional broadcaster, who encompassed history documentaries and the Olympics, as well as the sport he excelled in.

Many saw him as the natural heir to his early days mentor Bill McClaren, spending his words, said sports writer Peter Jackson, “as if they were £20 notes, invariably finding one to capture the moment when others would use 20”.

Former England hooker Moore, who formed a sparring double act with the Welshman in the rugby commentary box for years, posted: “My God, I’m going to miss this man…

“I am devastated by this news. Ed, I’m sorry I never told you how much I admired you as a broadcaster and as a man. Well, it wasn’t like that between us, was it.

“Condolences to Sue and your family. Sport has lost an iconic voice, I have lost a very dear friend. Goodbye Edward.”

And former Wales fly-half Davies, speaking emotionally on a special BBC Radio Wales tribute from the US while doing a Velindre charity bike ride, added: “Eddie was a presenter, a pundit, a genius broadcaster. He could turn his hand to everything. He was such a brilliant guy.

“He always had time for everybody. I just enjoyed working with him. It’s very difficult to put into words how good he was and how devastated everyone is. I can’t get my head around it.

“It was a joy to go into work. He was so eloquent. He had his own unique style. No one told him what to do or how to do it.

“He just had that Midas touch. He was a gentle, charming man. Very well educated, beautifully spoken.”

Former Wales and British Lions skipper Sam Warburton tweeted: “Stunned at the news and passing of Eddie Butler. Thoughts with his family.

“What an amazing contribution to rugby and broadcasting. A privilege to have played and co-commentated with his voice. RIP Eddie.”

England football hero and Match of the Day anchor Gary Lineker posted: “Awful news. A terrific broadcaster and wonderful wordsmith. RIP Eddie.”

TURN TO PAGE 12 FOR MORE LOCAL REACTION