Wales and British & Irish Lions legend Barry John has died at the age of 79.
The former fly-half is widely regarded as one of the best in his position at the peak of his career.
He played in 25 international matches for Wales as well as featuring in five Tests for the Lions before retiring at the age of 27.
A family statement read: "Barry John died peacefully today at the University Hospital of Wales surrounded by his loving wife and four children.
Barry John has died at the age of 79
BBC
"He was a loving dad to his 11 grandchildren and much-loved brother."
Tributes for the rugby icon soon flooded social media to pay their respects for the Welsh rugby icon.
Welsh Labour MP Nick Thomas-Symonds wrote: "Very sad news.
"Barry John was an icon of the sport of Rugby Union. One of its very greatest players, he was a truly brilliant outside half who entertained and inspired thousands of people.
"Above all, he was a lovely man. My thoughts are with his family and friends today."
Another post on X read: "Barry John, arguably the greatest fly-half of them all, has died aged 79."
A third person said: "The Kind has passed. Rest in peace, Barry John."
One other posted: "Goodbye King Barry John. One of the very greatest."
Conservative MP David TC Davies wrote: "Barry John was a legendary figure and one of the greatest players in rugby history. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."
Barry John is a hero of Welsh rugby
GETTY
John played a pivotal role in Wales winning the Grand Slam at the 1971 Five Nations Championship.
It was the first time Wales had achieved a Grand Slam victory in 19 years.
Later that year, John cemented his place in the sport's history forming one of the greatest half-back partnerships alongside Sir Gareth Edwards during the Lions' winning tour over New Zealand.
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Barry John's name appears on the wall inside Millennium Stadium
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He played in all four Tests and finished as the Lions' top Test scorer in the tour.
John surprisingly retired from rugby the following year in 1972, citing media attention and the pressures of playing for his country as the reason.
He's the second Welsh rugby legend from the 1970s to have died this year following JPR Williams' passing.
