Members of Hartlepool Rovers, Hartlepool BBOB, Horden and rugby supporters of all clubs across Hartlepool and district will be saddened to hear that Andrew Arnell passed away this morning.

Andrew started his playing career at Rovers coming up through the ranks of juniors to become a valued senior player. He then moved to BBOB to both sportingly create a gap for promising players coming through and also to put something back to a Boys Brigade that he was a proud member of. Andrew continued to be a member of Rovers and was a well liked coach of his son Daniel's age group, which combined with Horden, and also played for Rovers Vets.

Andrew was one of the most highly regarded players locally. Rugby has values of teamwork, respect and sportsmanship and it is hard to think of anyone that exemplifies them better than Andrew. He was a superb athlete and competed in Triathlons. Andrew was also a great family man and our sincere condolences go to his wife Rachel and family together with Paul and Eric.

Details of the funeral will be posted when known.

RIP Andrew