Welsh rugby mourns Hillman death

Former Wales Sevens coach and Bridgend hooker Colin Hillman has died at the age of 46 after a long illness.

In a distinguished career he also played for Barbarians, Swansea, South Wales Police, Bridgend Sports, Merthyr, Wales Sevens, Schools and Youth.

After his playing days, the South Wales Police officer coached Nantymoel, was director of rugby at Bridgend Ravens, and played a key role with the Sevens.

Hillman is survived by his wife, Janine, and sons Ben and Matthew.

"Colin Hillman was passionate about Welsh rugby and I had the utmost respect for him as a person and as a coach," said Welsh Rugby Union head of rugby performance and development Joe Lydon.

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"I first got to know him in 2002 when he coached the Wales Sevens team and I was coaching England.

"Over the years we became good friends and he will be sadly missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

"I am also aware that he was extremely highly regarded as a player of great talent and determination.

"He did a tremendous amount of work on behalf of sevens rugby in Wales and that commitment continued even after his illness was diagnosed.

"I offer my sincere condolences to his family and his friends."

Director of Bridgend Ravens David Rees said: "I knew Colin throughout his life and will remember him as an extremely loyal friend and a wonderful colleague who will be sadly missed by anyone who met him.

"He was highly respected across the rugby world and in all the time I have known him I have never heard anyone speak ill of him. He was that popular a man."