Tributes paid to rising rugby star killed in crash

Rising Kenilworth rugby star Alex Wallis, 18, was killed when his car left the A45 at Stretton on Dunsmore and hit a tree last Friday at around 2pm after he had been to the gym.

Since the accident his mother Christine, father David and 14-year-old sister Ellie, who all lived in Glasshouse Lane, Kenilworth, until a few years ago, have received hundreds of messages from people who knew Alex, who was known as Wallis by many.

Mrs Wallis, who now lives in Bubbenhall with her family, said: “Since he died we’ve come to realise just how loved he was.

“His friends have been telling me that people from all over the place knew and loved him.

“We’ve received messages from people living all over the world.

“The fact they actually contacted us shows what an impact he made on their lives.”

Mr Wallis added: “He was always a very happy and selfless young man.

“He was full of joy. I know parents always say that about their children but he really did bring joy into everyone’s lives.

“Everybody called him Wallis and you couldn’t say his name without a smile on your face.”

Alex, a former pupil and head boy at Abbotsford School, had just finished his A-levels at Princethorpe College and was planning on going to university in September.

Although he loved all kinds of sport, his greatest passion was for rugby, a game he had played since he was seven years old when he joined Kenilworth RFC. He played at all levels and this season he was starring in the colts and had moved up to the first team.

Willie Whitesmith, club secretary, said: “He was an incredibly promising rugby player and was a great guy.”

Alex’s coach Richard Gibson added: “He was a model of a Kenilworth rugby player who went all the way through the age groups and scored lots of tries.

“He could have easily moved into professional rugby.

“He had a great attitude and always worked hard. You wouldn’t want a better player. What has happened is a real tragedy.

“My son is his age and they grew up training together so Alex’s death is really chilling.”

Ed Hester, headmaster at Princethorpe College, said: “Alex was a very fine young man and a delight to know.

“He was heavily involved in all aspects of school life and always gave his best.

“As a natural sportsman, rugby was his real passion; his express pace and fearless tackling made him a quality winger, but it was his dedication and enthusiasm which really singled him out.

“It was typical of him that when he twice broke his collar bone Alex would act as touch-judge, remaining cheerful in adversity.

“He was a superb school prefect and as house captain he was an inspiration to the younger pupils.

“In undertaking charitable events such as a 40–mile sponsored walk or looking after elderly visitors to the college he showed great tenacity, patience and humour. He was the perfect gentleman and his tragic death has been a huge shock for us. He will be sadly missed.”

For Alex Wallis’ funeral arrangements visit Friends of Wallis on Facebook.

Warwickshire Police are appealing for anyone with information about the crash to call 415415.