Family, friends, and the Epping Forest rugby community are mourning the loss of a “absolute gentleman”.

Mr Ayres, 38, from North Weald, died after falling ill in Epping on September 20.

Ayres, known lovingly as ‘Ayresy’ by his friends and teammates at Epping Upper Clapton Rugby Football Club (EUCRFC), is remembered for his “infectious laughter”, kind personality, and his ability to make any situation better with his warmth and charisma.

Joe Philps, manager at Forest Gate Inn pub in Epping, remembers his close friend.

“Ayresy was the easiest man to get on with and like," he said.

"He had a great personality and was very kind. He didn’t stop smiling and only had good words to say about everyone. He was very generous and would help anyone out in any way he could.

“He was a wind-up merchant too and knew how to push people’s buttons for a laugh. We have lost a great man and friend who will never be forgotten.”

Ayresy, who was a signal engineer for the London Underground, spent his life outside work doing what he loved: being around his family, socialising with friends, and playing rugby.

The 38-year-old was a respected rugby player in the Epping Forest community. While he was feared on a rugby pitch, his friends remember the kindness he showed to all he met, his patience with children who loved his heavily illustrated arms, and his caring nature.

Adam Prince, a close friend of 14 years, remembers Ayresy as an “absolute gentleman.”

He said: “He was one of the most loved members of Epping Upper Clapton Rugby Club and will be missed by everyone who knew him.

“I, like so many, will cherish the laughs and great times I had with him. We will miss him and love him forever.”

Epping Upper Clapton RFC president Danny Elmer added: “Adam was in every sense a true rugby club man. He was always ready to give a helping hand when needed both on and off the pitch.

“I had the pleasure of coaching this talented rugby player and I never once heard him moan about what team he was selected for. He was always willing to play in any position selected in.

“His massive personality and his infectious laughter will be sorely missed at our club. It will be a quieter place without him there.”

Ayresy’s family and many friends are left shocked by this devastating news and a rugby club is bereft of a true club man.

Sleep easy, big man, you are greatly missed and so, so loved.

  • Jessica Hayden is a rugby journalist and EUCRFC player