Fan tributes continue to pour in for Welsh rugby legend Phil Bennett, who sadly passed away at the age of 73 on Sunday.
The mercurially-talented fly-half from Felinfoel left an indelible mark on rugby union, orchestrating some of the games most-loved tries with his trademark sidestep.
Though Bennett's impact upon rugby is obvious, what is also clear when perusing the hundreds of comments left on articles since his passing is the impression he left on people he met, and the time he had for those he didn't even know. Comments sections on WalesOnline stories have been littered with tales from those who met him in rugby clubs across Wales.
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It is also striking how those from outside Wales spoke so highly of a man who used to cause their own teams so much trouble with his dazzling footwork and rugby brilliance.
Here are just some of the many, many tributes that have been left by readers in recent days...
You can leave your own tributes to Phil Bennett in the comments section here.
EbbwFach: "Phil Bennett's compulsive and creative style got most of us my age hooked on rugby. Thank you Phil and God Bless."
Cas1112: "A legend on the field and a true gentlemen off it. Honoured to have watched him sidestep and weave his magic with the ball, and to have known him. Kind, funny, humble, inspiring and beyond talented, a great friend to my Dad when they worked together, and our hearts go out to all Phil’s family and friends. A Prince among men, he will forever remain a much loved, respected and admired legend."
gambo: "A great player and a very modest and kind man. You’ve been a real hero to us Phil Bach, on and off the field. R.I.P. God bless and our thoughts are with your family."
Charlie D: "I’ll never forget hearing, as I entered a charity function one time, “Here he is, c’mon Charlie, give us a cwtch!” I had only met Phil briefly a couple of times before yet he remembered my name, who I was and immediately welcomed me into the fold. A lovely, kind and funny man who lit up a room with his stories. He will be much missed. My sincere condolences to Pat and the family. Thank you for sharing him."
Toddie: "From a Leinster supporter. Wales have always been blessed with great fly half’s. David Watkins and Gareth Davies come to mind. But Barry John and Phil Bennett were from another planet. How Phil took over the role when Barry retired prematurely was just astounding. Wales in the 70s were a joy to watch even when they were hammering Ireland and Phil Bennett was at the centre of it. Such memories. Thank you and RIP."
Leinsterman98: "A genius of a player, one of the best I’ve ever seen. You didn’t need to be Welsh to enjoy the sheer beauty of his play, he was universal, the epitome of the way the game should be played. He gave enormous pleasure to many people all over the world and will be remembered as a giant of the game. Condolences to his family RIP."
Portlock: "He encapsulated all that was and is good about rugby. The sheer joy and excitement he gave to everyone who had the privilege of watching him play will never be forgotten. He was also a humble dignified man who was an exceptional role model to so many and a gentleman too. He will be greatly missed by the whole rugby community and further afield."
Dai B: "Saw him once after a Felinfoel play-off game. He was about ten yards in front of me. Turning around he said: "It's all set up nicely for Friday [the second-leg] but I'm away," as though he had known me all my life. Whether he mis-took me for someone he knew or not I don't know. But I felt truly honoured. Thanks for the memories, every one of them. They were truly remarkable."
Maxiboy7: "A True Welsh Legend, RIP and thanks for all the amazing rugby memories you left behind, you were the best! Thoughts and prayers are with all your family and friends."
stream: "R.I.P. Phil, a truly legendary player who simply lit up every dark, dank, soggy autumnal afternoon with his graceful genius. God bless to all your family."
Danfrap: "Watched Phil Bennett a number of times in the 70s and like Gerald Davies he could decide the fate of a game. A genius on the field, fast skilful and brave. Best 10 I ever seen."
Marko1970: "Grew up watching this absolute legend... feels as if I've lost part of my childhood... Rip Benny and thanks for the memories."
