MICK Rhymes, one of Oxfordshire rugby’s legendary characters, has died.

Rhymes, 80, a stalwart of Thames Valley Police rugby, was also a member of Gosford All Blacks and Oxford for many years.

As a serving policemen, he reached the rank of inspector and was based in Bicester.

He leaves a widow, Joyce, and children Caroline and Rod, who was a notable prop forward for Henley, Oxford Marathon and Gosford.

A celebration of Mick Rhymes’s life will take place at the Oxford Crematorium tomorrow at 1pm.

Donations should be sent to his favourite charity – ‘Let’s Play in Banbury,’ which supports children with disabilities.

Following the service, a gathering will take place at Gosford All Blacks RFC, Stratfield Brake, Kidlington.