Tributes have been paid after the death of an “extraordinary man” who organised the creation of the World Rugby Memorial which paid homage to the brave players who died in World War One. John Dennison, who has died suddenly, was a passionate supporter of remembering those who were killed in the Great War. He also helped highlight the incredible contributions made by soldiers from the Caribbean to all wars - particularly the conflict in 1914/1918. He was respected across the world of rugby for his tireless work. Dennison worked with all the rugby unions and had legends like Fergus Slattery, John Taylor and Serge Betsen supporting him. French icon Jean-Pierre Rives created the statue that now stands on a French battle field. Respected historian Peter Jones said: “John's enthusiasm for rugby was infectious, and his core belief was that the sport could bring communities from across Europe together. “Players from England, Wales, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic and Germany gathered at rugby festivals and enjoyed experiences that they will all talk about for the rest of their lives. John has created memories for a generation of young players across Europe. That is his legacy. “The festivals he organised combined rugby with history, highlighting rugby’s losses in the World Wars to connect with the sport’s followers in the 21st century. This made a trip with John different to a standard sports tour and the emphasis on community, team identity and common humanity had a considerable impact on young players and indeed on their more experienced coaches. “The teachers and students of Ystalfera in South Wales are not likely to forget their ceremony at the dragon memorial at Mametz Wood on the Somme, and the players of Birkenhead Park RFC will always remember their moment looking out over a field near Ypres where seven club players lost their lives in one attack." Dennison, a proud member of Maidstone Rugby Club in Kent died aged 65 at his home in Laon, France. He once explained to the Mirror his work in launching the Memorial. He said: “The aim was to build a lasting memorial dedicated to the rugby players of WW1, and this has now been extended to the memory of all rugby players who lost their lives in conflict. “The World Rugby Memorial was unveiled on Saturday September 16th 2017. Jean-Pierre Rives, the former French Rugby Captain created the “Ribbons of Memory” and is sited adjacent to the Le Monument des Basques. The memorial is located on land owned by the Conseil Departmental l’Aisne on the battlefields of the Chemin des Dames. It was during the first battle of the Marne and Chemin des Dames where the first international players were killed in 1914. “Along with the memorial the other part of the project is to produce a database of these players as a reference point and create an education element looking at the history of the game of rugby. Along with the memorial the other part of the project is to produce a database of these players as a reference point and create an educational element looking at the history of the game of rugby. “It is the one place in the world where all rugby supporters can come and reflect on the rugby players of the past, whether they be internationals or club players. We have always been supported by the rugby unions around the world, the military, clubs and schools and have hosted several events marking significant historic dates and locations." Sue Liburd worked with Dennison on an international Rugby and World War II VE80 heritage and educational commemorative programme to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Liburd, MBE, Deputy Lieutenant for Lincolnshire said: “John Dennison was a true visionary whose ideas touched thousands of lives. His legendary passion for education, remembrance, and community gave the VE80 Lincoln project its heart.” “John was more than a colleague — he was a friend. His warmth, humour, and generosity brought people together in ways that will never be forgotten. He gave so much of himself to others. His vision, kindness, and commitment to community will remain his lasting legacy.” President of Maidstone Rugby Club Richard Gray said: “John was a true gentleman and supporter of rugby across all aspects of the game.”