MUNSTER RUGBY ARE in mourning today after it was confirmed that the province’s head of strength and conditioning, Paul Darbyshire, has passed away.

The 39-year-old was diagnosed with Motor Neurone disease last September but continued to carry out his duties for several months.

He was also present when the Reds claimed the Magners League title after beating Leinster in the final at Thomond Park in May.

The news was confirmed in a statement on Munster’s website, and players and management currently taking part in a fundraising cycle on his behalf were informed as they assembled for the second stage of the event this morning.

They will complete the final portion of the cycle tomorrow when they travel to Trinity College via Maynooth.

Darbyshire is survived by his wife Lyndsay and the couple’s four children, Ella, Georgia, Jack and Harry. He spent 18 years at his hometown club of Warrington.

A spokesperson for the rugby league outfit told the Guardian: “Many at the club knew and worked alongside Paul for many years and he will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are totally with his family and friends at this difficult time.”