FAMILY, friends and internationals from both codes of rugby packed out the church in Burry Port last week for the funeral of Linda Warlow, the wife of former Saints prop John.

Saints fan Linda, who originally hailed from Thatto Heath where her father ran Forber’s fruit and vegetable shop on Elephant Lane, passed away after battling a cruel illness for ten years.

She was 73.

Husband John, who had two successful stints at Saints after joining from Llanelli in 1963, paid a glowing tribute to his wife of 51 years.

John said: “The church was full, but Linda was very popular – she used to light up the room.

“She loved life.

“I met her on a blind date in 1965, but I could never have found a better lady.”

Among those from the world of rugby paying their respects at the church were Kel Coslett, Brian Butler, Paul Prendiville and Jim Mills, former British Lion Phil Bennett and several members of John’s former club Felinfoel RFC.

The Warlow family, with daughters Debra and Leonie, settled back in Wales in 1976 after John’s playing career came to end and they took on a pub in Llanelli before going on to run the British Legion in Burry Port for ten years.

Sadly, for the past ten years Linda was stricken with Multiple System Atrophy – a form of Parkinsons.

“She really was an amazing person and never complained all the time I cared for her when she was poorly,” John said.

Speaking from south Wales John wished to let people in Linda’s home town know of her passing.

And he wished to thank everyone who attended Linda’s service and those who have passed on condolences during this sad time.