Stuart Gallacher has passed away © Getty Images

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Welsh rugby has paid tribute to the late Stuart Gallacher.

Gallacher, 68, played rugby for Wales in both union and league and was a stalwart of the Scarlets, later becoming their CEO. He was the first CEO of Regional Rugby Wales and served on the board of European Rugby Cup Ltd.

WRU CEO Roger Lewis said: "Stuart dedicated his life outside his family to the game of rugby and his contribution down the years will prove a fitting epitaph to his commitment and loyalty. His understanding and love for the game meant he was always able to contribute positively to important decisions which formed the road map for the development of the sport.

"I worked closely alongside Stuart for a number of years and count myself proud to have been able to call him a friend. He was a Scarlet through and through and his memory will always be closely associated with the club he loved so much."

The departing chairman of the WRU, David Pickering added: "Stuart was a giant of a man who made a massive impact on world rugby and his memory will live on throughout the game. He was a formidable player who could have won many more caps for Wales but of course he gained his further international honours after going north to rugby league.

"Nothing could keep him away from his beloved Scarlets and his contribution to their development as a club and region has been highly influential. In all his dealings he brought immense rugby knowledge to the table, both in Wales and beyond so the game of rugby owes Stuart a huge debt of gratitude.

"I have lost a great friend and I want to offer my condolences to his family and all his many friends at this very sad time. Rugby has lost one of its greatest supporters but Stuart's memory will live on because of everything he has contributed to the game throughout his life."