THE wife of a county rugby stalwart who died suddenly on the golf course on Tuesday afternoon, aged just 43, has paid tribute to her “best friend”.

Craig McGeary, who was involved with Musselburgh, Preston Lodge and Haddington rugby clubs, passed away after suffering a suspected heart attack while playing golf.

His wife Gail, who had been with Craig for 23 years, paid tribute to her husband of 10 years, who was a Scotland age-grade rugby cap, and a keen golfer.

Gail told the Courier: “I am grateful to have had 23 years with my best friend, and so fortunate to have so many treasured memories and experiences during that wonderful time.

"The memories we all have with Craig will never be forgotten.”

Nephew Joe Burns described Craig as “such a big part of our family, and a great uncle”.

He added: “All the family and friends are together and have been all day [on Tuesday] just trying to get our heads around this like many others, but hearing the positive impact Craig had on so many people has been comforting.”

Joe thanked Cal Smith, a professional at Musselburgh Golf Club, who tried to revive his uncle after he collapsed at the course on Tuesday afternoon – after a suspected heart attack – before paramedics arrived.

A former player with Haddington and Musselburgh, he had also held coaching roles, including as 1st XV head coach at Stoneyhill and the Pennypit.

All three clubs paid tribute to Mr McGeary, who was born at the former Vert Hospital in Haddington and lived with Gail in Gullane.

Musselburgh RFC’s website said: “The club has been shocked and saddened to hear the sad news that past 1st XV player, coach and rugby development officer Craig McGeary has passed away suddenly. Our thoughts and prayers go to Gail and the rest of his family at this time.”

Meanwhile Preston Lodge said: “Preston Lodge RFC are saddened to hear of the sudden death of ex-coach Craig McGeary. Our thoughts and prayers to Gail and the rest of his family.”

A spokesperson for Haddington RFC added: “We were shocked, and saddened to learn of the sudden death of Craig McGeary. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, former Haddington RFC team-mates and those at both Preston Lodge and Musselburgh.”

He also worked as a sports coach at Loretto School in Musselburgh.

A statement on the school's website said: "Craig was greatly respected by both colleagues and pupils in the Loretto community. At this time our thoughts and prayers are with Craig's wife, Gail and the rest of the family."

Craig was a member at Glen Golf Club in North Berwick, and once recorded a hole in one at the course, where the flag at the clubhouse flew at half mast on Wednesday.

There were tributes, too, from Scottish Rugby, where Mr McGeary served as a video analyst to the national team in 2005, before joining Edinburgh Rugby.

A spokesperson said: “Scottish Rugby is saddened to learn of the death of Craig McGeary, a former employee and stalwart of rugby in East Lothian. Scottish Rugby extends its sincere condolences to all Craig’s family and friends.”

Craig is survived by wife Gail, parents Tom and Linda and his extended family.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be confirmed.