A popular Herbrandston footballer tragically collapsed and died while exercising in a gym in Cardiff on Tuesday.

Matthew Price, a teacher at Fitzalan High School, in the Leckwith area of Canton, was running on a treadmill at Dave's Gym, in Roath, when he suddenly collapsed and died at 6pm, despite staff attempts to revive him.

The 27-year-old was extremely popular with many close friends. He was a former captain of Herbrandston football team, where all that knew him held him in high esteem. A talented central midfielder, one of his proudest moments was captaining the team in the 2007 Senior Cup final where they narrowly lost in extra time to Monkton Swifts.

Herbrandston manager Modesto Galdo said: "I can't believe it. Only last week we were at a wedding party having a drink together and he told me he was looking forward to coming home.

"It's devastating to think that I will never see him again. He was a lovely lad and a really good friend of mine. He will be sorely missed by everyone associated with the club."

His former manager at Herbrandston and good friend Stephen Batty said: "He was a lovely man. We shared a lot of good times together both on and off the field. Everyone who knew him will sorely miss Pricey. I can't believe he's gone and I am totally shell shocked by this terrible tragedy."

"It's so tragic to lose someone so young. Sincere condolences to his family," said Pembrokeshire Football League secretary Brian Hawkins.

His former school head of year at Milford Haven Comprehensive School, Bill Carne, said: "Teachers should not have favourites - but he was definitely one of mine. Matthew was a model pupil who I thought the world of. He was also an extremely talented sportsman."

As news broke of his death, friends began posting tributes on facebook. Among them, Adam Raymond said: "Another good bloke taken far too early, puts life into perspective. R.I.P Pricey mate, my thoughts are with his family, friends and the Herbie boys tonight."

A post mortem is due to be carried out today (Thursday) to try to determine the cause of death.

Funeral arrangements had not yet been confirmed.

Tributes to Matthew may be left in the comments below.