A former rugby league star has died at the age of 40.
Ricky Bibey died while on holiday, one of his former clubs has said. The former St Helens and Wigan Warriors prop-forward burst onto the scene in 2001, and today former clubs paid tribute to the player, who was forced to retire through injury in 2012.
During a memorable career for the likes of Leigh Centurions and Wakefield Trinity, the Leigh-born player twice won the Challenge Cup. Wakefield shared a touching tribute on social media.
READ MORE: Schoolboy 'desensitised to violence' became a killer
The post said: "Trinity are saddened to hear of the passing of former prop-forward Ricky Bibey, aged 40. Ricky played for Trinity between 2007 and 2009, making 60 appearances. We send our condolences to Ricky's family and friends at this tough time.
Leigh East, the club where Bibey made his start as a junior, also had kind words for his family. In a tweet, a club spokesperson said: "All at the club are saddened to hear about the death of our former junior Ricky Bibey who passed away on holiday.
"Ricky played professionally for a number of clubs including Leigh, Wigan, St Helens and Wakefield. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time."
Leeds Rhinos also paid tribute, with the club posting: "Sad news this morning of the untimely death of former Wigan, Saints, Wakefield and Leigh player Ricky Bibey, are thoughts are with his friends and family at this sad time."
READ NEXT:
Back from the brink: The Liverpool house where lives are being saved every day
Merseyside beauty spot deserted after 'ridiculous' parking charges
Violence plagued estate where bullets have been flying freely
Everton boss's letter shows council could not help fund Bramley-Moore
Ghost hunters forced to abandon investigation after chilling discovery
