A HEREFORD man who died in the River Wye last week was a talented sportsman who was starting to make a name for himself in the world of bowls.

Richard Arrowsmith, from Union Street, pictured, was found near the Old Bridge following a missing person search.

The 35-year-old father of Caitlin, 10, and Imogen, one, was a member of Brimfield and Little Hereford Bowling Club and represented Herefordshire in the Middleton Cup and the National Triple Finals.

It was while Richard was playing in the latter competition in Worthing last year that Imogen was born.

He first heard the news that she was due to enter the world when he prepared his first wood, with the 6lb 4oz baby arriving by the end of the match.

Imogen was born prematurely and Richard raced straight to Hereford after the match to see his daughter.

Jennie Cole, chairman of Brimfield and Little Hereford Bowling Club, said that Richard was a natural bowler.

“He joined us about three years ago and was very talented,” said Jennie, who won the Tandler mixed pairs with Richard last year.

“He was such a natural bowler and a lovely, charming man.”

Richard’s other successes included winning the Barnett Bowl with team mate Barbara Griffiths and scooping the John Collett Trophy, along with Ashley Edwards and Helen Skinner.

He also held his nerve to beat Doug Smurthwaite 21- 15 to take home the Millennium Plate.

Commonwealth gold medallist and indoor bowls champion Rob Weale said that he has known Richard for many years.

“I used to work with his dad and we used to take him fishing,” said Rob.

“He was a lovely lad and a genuine guy.”

Richard, who was a carpenter and a keen golfer, studied at the Bishop of Hereford’s Bluecoat School.

As well as his daughters, he is survived by his mother Hazel, father Rob, sister Lucy and brother Ben.

His family said that he was “loving, generous and caring” and would be missed by everyone who knew him.

Richard’s funeral will take place at Hereford Crematorium on Friday, October 11 at 1.30pm.

For arrangements, call R.W. Mann and Son on 01568 612358.