Leicester Tigers are saddened to hear of the death of former player Mike Mortimer, aged 75.

Mike, who was born in Huddersfield but was educated in Devon and York, moved to Leicester to take up a teaching post and joined Tigers during the 1969/70 season. He went on to make 132 first-team appearances up to December 1975, scoring 10 tries.

Selected to play representative rugby with Devon, Leicestershire and Midland Counties East, after his retirement from playing Mike remained in the county and became a well-known member of the Leicestershire Society of Referees.

As well as writing widely on the laws of the game, he hosted events explaining the finer points of the laws of the game for supporters.

Tigers pass on the club’s condolences to Mike’s family and friends at this time.

The funeral is at Countesthorpe Crematorium (Foston Road, Countesthorpe, Leicester, LE8 5QP) on Friday, November 1 at 3.00pm and open to anyone who wishes to attend.