Tributes to former Lytham Guardian worker

Tributes have been paid to a former Fylde coast worker and father-of-two who died hours after playing touch rugby.
Rugby-loving Sean Tomlinson with Jonny WilkinsonRugby-loving Sean Tomlinson with Jonny Wilkinson
Rugby-loving Sean Tomlinson with Jonny Wilkinson

Fifty-year-old Sean Tomlinson passed away suddenly in London after turning out for the Hitchin Rugby Club’s Grey Hogs at Allianz Park, the home of rugby union Premiership side Saracens.

After completing several fun games – the last being against the England Over 45 Touch Team – Sean died at the nearby Mill Hill Rugby Club base.

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Sean, of Letchworth, was born and educated in Preston and still has family and friends in the city and on the Fylde. The former Preston Grasshoppers player formerly worked at Guardian in Lytham.

Tragically, it is only weeks since Sean’s dad Ian died suddenly on holiday in Majorca. Sean’s mum Judith still lives in Preston.

Sean’s widow Mandy said: “I’m amazed by the support, good wishes and memories that everyone has shared with us as a family.”

His brother Mark said: “He was a great brother and son and adored his wife and children.”

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Hitchin Rugby Club president Tim Jeffries said: “We are so shocked and will miss Sean greatly. He was a great guy, full of enthusiasm, fun, love of our game and more. Our thoughts are with his family at this awful time.”

Sean had been an active member of Hitchin Rugby Club, for more than 20 years and was a former player and U13 coach.

His whole family are involved at the club, with Mandy involved in the girls’ rugby team and children Jack, 12 and Alice, 15 both regular players.

It is believed Sean suffered a heart attack. The funeral will take place at 2pm on May 24 at Hitchin’s St Mary’s Church.

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