Boxer Scott Westgarth who died after being taken ill following a victory in the ring is the son of a former Llandovery rugby player.

The club has said its thoughts are with former player John Westgarth whose son Scott died hours after being taken ill following his Saturday night victory over Dec Spelman in what was his tenth pro fight.

The 31-year-old won the England light heavyweight eliminator on points against Spelman on Saturday, February 24 but then fell ill backstage and was rushed to hospital. Both boxers were knocked down to the canvas at different points during the punishing 10-round encounter at the Doncaster Dome.

Doctors sent Scott to hospital in an ambulance, from his dressing room, but he was pronounced dead in the early hours of Sunday at Sheffield’s Royal Hallamshire Hospital.

Llandovery club president Handel Davies spoke for all at the Carmarthenshire club.

He said: "Our thoughts and prayers go out to John after the loss of his son Scott after the fight at Doncaster.

"All his many, many friends at Church Bank send their condolences at this very sad time. He was immensely popular with all in Llandovery."

Second row Westgarth – now 58 years of age - senior played 104 games for Llandovery from 1994 to 1999 and gained a reputation as a fearless and committed player and a softly spoken gentleman off the pitch.

Along with Canadian Jamie Cudmore he is considered the greatest lock to play for the Tywi Valley club.

He joined Llandovery from West Hartlepool and was a vital part of the Llandovery success in coming up from the West Wales Rugby Union League to a place in the Premiership.

Brought into the club by former President Phil Davies , he made his debut against Penarth in August 1994 and was a regular over five years.

Davies pointed out that John once played with his brother Kevin for Llandovery in a mid-week game against Dunvant.

"He was a great man a real gentleman, a true friend and always wore his club tie and blazer to and after games.

"Everyone has the deepest respect for him on and off the field."

Before rugby, Westgarth had found earlier fame in the boxing ring, boxing 29 times as a professional and in 1986 fought for the European Heavyweight title, losing to champion Steffen Tangstad.

He was hugely proud of Scott, one of his four boys.

Dad John posted in a Facebook tribute: "I’m going to thank everyone for their condolences which has been overwhelming for all the family. I can’t get round to thanking you all personally at this moment, but I’m sure I will. I thank the press for the special tributes - so very touching.”

"Scott Westgarth I’m going to miss you but I know that you are still here to talk to. We’re going to look after your Natalie so don’t worry son. I’m sorry for all the tears, I know what you would say ’MAN UP’ - well maybe a little stronger than that! Rest my son I will see you again. Love you xx."

A GoFundMe page set up to raise money for Westgarth’s family has already raised more than £7,000.