THE rugby community of Yate and Chipping Sodbury is mourning the loss of a talented teenager who has died after a severe epileptic fit.

Fourteen-year-old Elliott Braybrooke was a Year 9 pupil at Brimsham Green School in Yate.

His father Tim, rugby manager at Chipping Sodbury Rugby Club, told the Gazette: "He was a wonderful son and a lovely boy. He was a social character and a bit of a rascal on the side.

"Elliott had played rugby since he was six and had gone back to playing for Chipping Sodbury Cricket Club this year as well.

"If there was a sport he could have a go at, he would. He threw himself into every sport."

Mr Braybrooke said his wife Jane and their other son Thomas, 19, were managing to cope as long as they kept busy.

The family had recently finished decorating Elliott’s bedroom at their home in Brockworth, Yate, complete with a multi-media centre to help him through his studies.

The youngster was diagnosed as epileptic seven years ago and was prescribed medication to stop the seizures.

"The medication affected him both mentally and physically," said Mr Braybrooke.

"So we took him off it and he started going back to having seizures. He had one on the cricket pitch three weeks ago and then one last Tuesday while he was playing on a trampoline with his friends."

He died on Wednesday, May 27, after suffering an epileptic fit the day before.

Elliott’s funeral takes place at Westerleigh Crematorium on Tuesday, June 9 (1pm) followed by a wake at Chipping Sodbury Rugby Club. Hundreds of the teenager’s school friends and rugby team mates are expected to attend.

Added Mr Braybrooke: "We want it to be bright and colourful. We are expecting it to be absolutely packed."

A spokesman for the rugby club said: "Our sympathy, thoughts and prayers go out to Tim, Jane and Tom in this difficult time. He will be greatly missed by the whole club."

A book of condolence has been opened at the club for Elliott. The clubhouse will be open every weekday evening (6-8pm) for people to add their contribution.