Body of Welsh rugby player found in France

Tributes have been paid to Steffan Rees, a 29-year-old Royal Navy sailor and rugby player from Wales, who tragically passed away while participating in the World Defence Rugby competition on French soil.

Rees, a member of the Combined Services rugby team, was discovered lifeless along the coastal expanse of Dinard in Brittany on Tuesday. Initial investigations point to an accidental fall as the cause of his untimely demise, shared local prosecutor Fabrice Tremel via AFP.

Reports reveal that Rees had been reported missing prior to his discovery, which prompted a swift search operation. Tremel informed AFP that the player's identification was corroborated by two team coaches shortly after the alarm was raised that the young rugby player had gone missing.

Rees, who played centre and fullback, had previously played with Aberystwyth Rugby Club.

The Royal Navy, working hand in hand with French authorities, has embarked on a joint investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding his death.

A spokesperson for the Royal Navy conveyed their condolences, stating, "We can confirm the death of Royal Navy sailor, Able Seaman Steffan Rees of Aberystwyth. Our thoughts and sympathy are with his family and friends. We continue to assist the French authorities with their investigations and therefore are unable to comment further."

In memory of Rees, Aberystwyth RFC's upcoming fixture against Kidwelly has been postponed.

The World Defence Rugby competition, a stage for 12 allied nations, is currently underway in 26 locales throughout Brittany, culminating on September 10. A statement from the organisers released on Thursday read: "The organisers of the 2023 international defence rugby competition, the Western Defence and Security Zone, the Centre National des Sports de la Defense and the Brittany Regional Rugby League, join with the UK Armed Forces in mourning the death of a member of their team during the competition earlier this week.

"The entire rugby and military sports community has come together to offer its more fraternal support to the family of the British serviceman, his loved ones and his team-mates.

"The British team has decided to continue the competition in tribute to his comrade. We would like to express our sympathy and solidarity to his teammates and wish them every success."