Saints legend Frank Packman passes away aged 57

The news was announced on Wednesday evening and will come as a huge shock to everyone who loved Packman as a player and a person.

He died while out cycling with two of his sons in Bedfordshire on Tuesday.

A prolific try-scorer, Packman became Saint #1519 on making his debut in 1983 and the winger would go on to cross the whitewash 178 times in his 323 appearances for the club, putting him fifth in Northampton’s all-time try-scoring records.

He enjoyed an illustrious career as a player, and coached the youth game, building a far-reaching reputation for playing and promoting the sport.

The rugby world and colleagues in Northamptonshire Police, where he served for 15 years as a police officer, have been shocked by the news.

His wife Rachel – who only recently retired from police service herself – and his family, say they are devastated at his tragic death and are asking for privacy at this difficult time.

Packman was a dedicated and loving father to four sons and a daughter.

After his police career, his energy and focus helped him become a very successful and highly-regarded businessman.

He was director of an international healthcare logistics company, based in Northampton, where he also lived.

Details of funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.