Former Rugby League forward Stephen Holgate has died aged just 49.
Holgate began his career with Workington in 1994 and then went on to play 22 games for Wigan, beating Leeds in the inaugural Super League Grand Final in 1998.
He also featured in the top flight for Hull and Halifax and helped Widnes win the Northern Ford Premiership Grand Final in 2001.
His former teams all took to Twitter to confirm the news this morning.
A Tweet from Wigan Warriors read: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the news that Stephen Holgate has died, aged 49.
"Holgate played 22 games for Wigan in 1998, including the Super League Grand Final.
"We send our deepest condolences to Stephen’s family and friends at this awful time."
Workington Town added: "It’s with great sadness that we learn of the passing of ex player Stephen Holgate.
"An extraordinarily talented player who we are privileged to say graced Derwent Park. Rest in Peace marra."
And a tweet from Hull FC said: "Having won the 1998 Grand Final with Wigan, the England international represented FC during the following campaign in 1999.
"The club sends their condolences to Stephen's family and friends."
