Devizes Rugby Club has been hit by the loss of another stalwart after the death of businessman Geoff Taylor.

Mr Taylor, who was well known in Devizes as an auctioneer and former councillor, was father of the club's 1st XV captain Julian Taylor.

The club's website said on Friday: "This morning, Devizes RFC learnt of the devastating loss of another of it's club's stalwarts for the second time within a week; as long time VP, club member, supporter and father to 1st XV captain Julian Taylor passed away this morning.

"Geoff had been battling for some time with Motor Neurone's disease and had recently moved to Devizes having lived in Bromham for many years.

"Geoff was extremely well known in the local community, as a well known auctioneer and he only finished working for Straker's last year. In his younger days, he played football for Bromham and cricket for Spye Park, however his love was for rugby, being an avid Bath Rugby Club fan, as a season ticket holder, travelling around the UK and Europe to support them.

"Geoff was a huge supporter of the rugby club and often travelled away with the 1st team to support his youngest son Julian.

"Geoff will be sorely missed by everyone: players and spectators alike, at Devizes Rugby Club. Thoughts and prayers are with the Taylor family and Geoff's wife Rosemary at this extremely difficult time."

The death of Mr Taylor follows just a week after the death of businessman Vince Gaiger of Gaiger Bros. A celebration of Mr Gaiger's life is on Friday at 2.30pm at the church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Devizes. The family asks for bright colours to be worn.