Former Leicester Tigers player John Allen has died, aged 80.

Allen made his debut as a teenager in 1961 before becoming almost an ever-present at scrum-half over 16 seasons, totalling 457 appearances with Tigers - the third most in club history.

He scored a try in a win over Bath in his final game in 1975 before serving the club as treasurer, secretary and director.

Allen scored almost 300 points in his senior career, including 58 tries, for the club which he captained in 1970-71.

In 1997, he was honoured with Life Membership and was a non-executive director for a decade between 1997–2007.

Speaking about Allen, Leicester Tigers Chairman Peter Tom CBE said: "John's place in the club's history will forever hold a special place."

"His contribution was made throughout the majority of his life and legacy, on and off the field, is almost unrivalled in our more than 140 years.

"The thoughts of all at Leicester Tigers are with John's family, friends and teammates at this difficult time."

Leicester Tigers will pay tribute to the life of John Allen at the club's next home game, in Round 2 of the 2022/23 Heineken Champions Cup.