TRIBUTES flowed in this week for talented all-round sportsman Steve Wiles, who died at his Basingstoke home last Friday after a short illness. He was aged 54.

The speedy athlete played on the wing for Basingstoke rugby club, was a successful sprinter with Basingstoke and Mid-Hants AC, a squash player of note and also a football and swimming coach.

As a youth, Steve, from Old Worting Road, was a valued member of the local athletics club, serving the southern league men's team as a sprinter.

His speed brought him a rapid rise to the first-team squad when he joined Basingstoke rugby club, for whom he played for more than a decade.

He returned to challenge for athletics honours as a veteran and was rewarded with British championship medals.

He became the over-45 200 metres British champion in 1994 and, in the same year, he was crowned British indoor champion over the same distance as well as bronze medalist over 60m indoors.

The year before he achieved a southern counties gold double over 100 and 200m.

When his sons Adam and Martin took swimming lessons at Basingstoke Sports Centre and eventually joined Britannia swimming club, Steve offered his services as teacher and coach, an association that lasted until his death.

When he had successfully met most of the physical challenges he had set himself, including a Basingstoke marathon in a very respectable time, he continued coaching at Beechdown, the sports centre, the rugby club, the athletics and swim clubs.

As a mark of respect, all six rugby teams playing at Down Grange on Saturday stood together for two minutes' silence.

Rugby club chairman Steve Tristram said: "Steve was one of those guys the world produces now and again who makes it a richer place."

A meeting at the rugby club will shortly consider what to do in his name.

Former athletics club chairman Ian Byett said: "It was a great shock to hear of his death. He was a real charmer and well liked by all."

Dave Deadman, one of the best squash players Basingstoke has produced, had his first lessons from Steve Wiles.

"He was one of those sporting icons," said Deadman.

Steve leaves a wife Vera and two sons. A funeral service will be held at Trinity Church on Tuesday (noon).

His son Martin said: "He always said he wanted a celebration so there will be no black worn."