TRIBUTES have been paid to a 'kind, generous and funny' man from Wrexham who died suddenly last week. 

Matt Arnold was well known for his role in the club scene in Wrexham as well as his strong passion for rugby. 

Sixty-year-old Matt had been battling cancer for close to a year, before sadly passing away from illness on Sunday, (February 12). 

He was the dad of Christian and partner of Lorenza. 

Matt had a variety of jobs in his early life, after completing basic training in the army, he worked abroad for a number of years before returning to Wrexham and taking up a role with JCB. 

After a few years with the manufacturing company, he bought and ran a number of chip shops in the area. 

Following his ventures in the chippy industry, Matt delved into the nightclub scene. 

The Leader: Matt ArnoldMatt Arnold (Image: UGC)

He played an important role in the opening of Yale's Bar, Central Station, and South Central. 

However, Matt's real love was for the game of rugby. 

He represented Wrexham from an early age until his 50s and also played for Mold and Denbigh in between. 

Wrexham Rugby Club's director of rugby, Rob Jones described Matt as a 'club stalwart'. 

He said: "Matt was a happy-go-lucky type of guy who would always help anyone who needed it. 

"He was always there for people if they needed a chat or a beer, he was just a brilliant bloke.

"He was a very talented rugby player and a proper club man. 

"When the club was struggling, he was there helping, putting money behind the bar, helping coach the youth and juniors coming through the ranks as well. 

"He always had the club's best interests at heart and was a real club stalwart."

One of Matt's best friends, Nick Stott echoed Rob's thoughts. 

Nick said: "He was a very talented rugby player during spells with Wrexham, Mold and Denbigh. 

The Leader: Matt Arnold playing rugbyMatt Arnold playing rugby (Image: UGC)

"He had some really good times with the first team at Wrexham, which he really enjoyed. 

"Matt was incredibly intelligent and had a way with words, as well as a very dry sense of humour. 

"But if you ever needed help he would be there for you, he was great like that. 

"The amount of people in Wrexham he'd help get jobs or get help was ridiculous."

"He lived a good life and was a really good guy, but just sadly was taken too soon."

On Matt's passing, Wrexham Rugby Club said: "We are saddened to hear that Matt Arnold has passed away after a brave battle against illness.

"Matt was a great servant to the club as a player over many years and as a coach for mini, junior and senior squads.

"Off the field, Matt had helped keep the club afloat during our most difficult days and we will always be grateful for his support for Wrexham RUFC.

"Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Matt's family and friends."