Funeral of John Herbert takes place today

The lifelong rugby fan, from Blackbrook, was extremely well known in the sporting community and across the borough as 'Big John'.

The dad-of-two, who formerly owned Big John's Butchers on Chain Lane shopping precinct, most recently worked for A2B Taxis and was a regular at Saints and Thatto Heath rugby league matches.

After complications following an operation on his gall bladder, John died aged 52, on Tuesday, October 1.

Speaking to the Star, John's parents Ralph and Cath Herbert, said: "The family and so many of his friends were with him when he died in critical care on Tuesday.

"It was full with his friends he grew up with, made along the way and from rugby.

"We've lived in this area for 49 years, so we have been very lucky to get so much support, which means so much at a time like this.

"We just can't believe he's gone. It was just so unexpected.

"He was just so well known. It's been lovely actually to really see how well liked he was.

"The person at Bates and Holland who is organising the funeral even said 'when John goes, the town of St Helens will stop'; that shows how well thought of he was.

"The kids are being so brave, it's hard for us all.

"But we will do him proud and want to invite everyone who loved John to come to his funeral."

His death has led to an outpouring of tributes from people across the borough and sporting community.

Writing on Twitter, former Saints player Phil Veivers, said: "RIP big man good friend who always had time for a chat.

"Sadly missed. Condolences to all his close relatives and friends."

Thatto Heath Crusaders, added: "We can’t believe you have gone. So sad to hear about the passing of Big John Herbert. Rest In Peace pal."

The family has asked that those who attend John's funeral wear blue as a mark of his love of Everton Football Club or red for Thatto Heath Crusaders.

The service will take place on Monday, October 14 at St Helens Crematorium at 3pm. This will be followed by a wake at Sidac Social Club in Sutton.