TRIBUTES have been paid to a "complete gentleman and a cracking footballer" from Pembroke, following his sudden death on the weekend.

Brendon Holder, aged 24, is understood to have died in the early hours of Saturday, August 4.

Just hours earlier, he posted a heartbreaking message on social media, which read: "Sorry for anyone I hurt. Please don’t think I’m selfish. I wasn’t the best of sons and friend, I am sorry.

"See you all soon. Can’t wait to see you mum.

"Sorry for who I hurt. Bye guys."

A few minutes later, he shared a photograph of himself as a baby with his mother, who it is understood died in 2012.

Friends and loved ones responded to Mr Holder's status, asking him to stay safe and to contact them, but he did not reply.

A police spokesman said: “Dyfed-Powys Police was made aware of the sudden death of a 24-year-old man at an address in Thomas Street, Pembroke, during the early hours of Saturday, August 4.

"Next of kin and HM Coroner have been informed, and the death is not being treated as suspicious.”

Mr Holder - listed as Brendon Martin Rudge on the coroner's listings - has been described by those who knew him as an "amazing boy" who was "one of a kind".

Tributes have also come from former teammates praising his skill on the pitch.

Said one: "Such a good friend and a pleasure to have played along side you, will miss you mate."

Western Telegraph: Carmarthen Stars shared this picture of Brendon Holder on Saturday.Carmarthen Stars shared this picture of Brendon Holder on Saturday.

Mr Holder went to school in Burry Port, attended college in Llanelli, and played football for Burry Port AFC as a teenager.

Carmarthen Stars, with whom Mr Holder was a player, cancelled two games scheduled for the weekend after hearing of his death.

“Devastated to lose such a really nice guy and a talented player who scored a number of goals for the club and helped the seconds with promotion," read a message shared online.

“Both firsts and seconds games were called off today.

"Thoughts are with all those who are close to him. You will be missed by all at the club.

"Brendon Holder RIP.”

His friends are now hoping to hold a charity football match on Saturday, August 25, in Burry Port in his honour, with several west Wales teams already signed up. 

Said co-organiser Vicki Evans: "He was one of the most genuine nicest guys you would ever meet, and more than anything he loved football."

All monies raised will go towards funeral costs, with any extra given to charity.

If you need support following a bereavement, you can contact Cruse on 0808 808 1677 or click here.

Samaritans also offers 24/7 support on 116 123.