HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to a “gentle giant” rugby player who died in a horror crash.

Will Allen, 23, was tragically killed after his van collided with a tractor on the A47 at King’s Lynn, in West Norfolk on Friday.

3
Will Allen tragically died after his van collided with a tractorCredit: West Norfolk Rugby Club
3
Tributes have poured in for the much-loved 23-year-old (middle)Credit: West Norfolk Rugby Club
Emergency services were called to the scene at around 7.55am, after reports of a crash involving a white Ford Transit and a Volvo tractor unit with trailer.

The young rugby player was rushed to hospital and sadly pronounced dead a short while later.

Heartfelt tributes have since poured in for Will, who played for his local club.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely passing of our prop Will Allen, known to so many of us as Canada,” the club said in a statement.

“He’s been a part of the West Norfolk family for many years now and his absence will not only leave a big gap in our front row but also our hearts.

“Will, our gentle giant was such a lovely person, he was a true clubman.

“Our thoughts are with his family and those close to him during this difficult time.

“Further arrangements will be announced in due course, until then please support each other, raise a pint of Guinness and remember fondly one of our club’s biggest characters. “

Steve Smith, the club’s president, said Mr Allen was nicknamed Canada because he joined it after emigrating to Lynn from Canada five years ago.

“He was a character, he was a really loveable guy, he’d do anything for anybody,” he said.

“He was really committed to the club, he was always available to play.

“Props do a tough job so you rotate people so they can have a rest but Will could go the entire 80 minutes without a break, it’s an immense loss to us.”

Rugby clubs from around the region added their respects on West Norfolk’s Facebook page.

Spalding Rugby Club, from Lincolnshire said: “Dear West Norfolk Rugby Club and family of Will, we would like to send you all our deepest sympathies.

“Our thoughts go out to you all at this tough and difficult time of Will’s passing and as you have mentioned will leave a lasting gap in your formidable team.

“We know times like these can be tough and difficult but we stand united with you all side by side and and wish you some ease in your thoughts.”

Norfolk Rugby Union Referees’ Society added: “Everyone at the Norfolk Referees society is deeply saddened to hear the news about Will. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and everyone at West Norfolk RFC. Thinking of you all.”

And Bee Bannister, director of rugby at Fakenham Rugby Club, wrote: “That’s terrible news. So sad to hear this and our thoughts and deepest condolences go to Will’s family and friends, and of course, to everyone associated with West Norfolk Rugby Club.

“At times like this, our local rugby community must support each other. RIP Will.”

Norwich-based Crusaders Rugby Club posted: “Sending our thoughts and condolences from everyone at Crusaders RFC to Will’s family, friends and all at West Norfolk RFC at this very sad time.”

Meanwhile Ely Tigers added: “A worthy opponent on the pitch, and from the touching tribute, clearly a great presence off it as well. Sincerest condolences from all at Ely Tigers.”

Police are now appealing for anyone who saw the crash or who has any dashcam footage to contact them.

Anyone with any relevant information is asked to contact the force via the following channels, quoting reference NC-27022026-66.

You can contact police via email, their website, or by calling 101.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

3
The tragedy unfolded on the A47 at King’s Lynn, in West Norfolk on FridayCredit: Google Streetview