FRIENDS and family have paid tribute to Bernie Johnston, a father of two who died from a heart attack while playing for Gravesend Rugby Club.

Mr Johnston, 65, had come on as a substitute against Maidstone Barbarians when he suddenly collapsed. He later died at Maidstone Hospital.

Mr Johnston leaves a widow Glenys and two daughters Louise Johnston and Amanda Bunk, who is expecting her first child in January.

Mrs Johnston, of Duchess Close, Strood, said her husband had time for everyone. She added: "He gave so much to people, to rugby and to his family.”

Mr Johnston spent 15 years as a Medway magistrate and 45 years working for Kent Fire & Rescue, and had played for his rugby club for around 25 years.

Gary Theobald, 45, a fellow player and friend, said his kindly personality made him a popular figure. “He was astutely aware of the club’s needs to get lower sides out and spent a lot of effort getting games for younger and newer players,” he said.

Pete Ramsay, 32, steward at the rugby club, said: “He was the backbone of the club. Everyone respected him and liked him."

Mr Johnston will be buried in his cherished Lions tour rugby shirt, signed by the elite international team when he met them by chance in Australia in 2000.