FOREST sports star Steve James has announced the tragic loss of his 21-year-old daughter.

The former England and Glamorgan cricketer, who also played rugby for home town club Lydney RFC, was in Dublin covering the Ireland v Wales Six Nations match for The Times on Saturday when news reached him that daughter Bethan had fallen seriously ill in Cardiff, where she was at university.

As a gesture of support for James and his family, the England team said they would black armbands during today’s (Wednesday, February 12) Twenty20 match against South Africa in memory of the Cardiff University journalism student.

He told The Times he was "honoured" by their "moving gesture".

Due to the bad weather at the weekend, it is thought the sports journalist was delayed returning home in time before her passing.

Announcing her death with wife Jane, the heartbroken 52-year-old wrote on social media on Monday: "We have the most indescribably devastating news that our beautiful daughter Bethan suddenly passed away on Saturday evening.

"Our hearts are broken. She was the most wonderfully caring and kind daughter and sister to Rhys."

Glamorgan Cricket Club, where the former Monmouth School pupil scored 15,890 runs in a prolific 17-year career with the county, sent their best wishes to the James family following the tragic news.

Former Wales rugby union and GB league star Jonathan Davies posted: "Steve and Jane this is devastating news. There are no words. Love and prayers to you all xx.”

Fellow TV pundit, former England star Brian Moore, tweeted: "So sorry Steve; nothing will be of comfort but thoughts with you all,” and referee Nigel Owens added: "My sincere and deepest sympathy to you all as family and friends. God bless."

Former Wales star Tom Shanklin said: "So so sorry to hear this news Steve and Jane. Thoughts are with you and your family.”

Bethan reportedly died of sepsis having been diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease last year.

She wrote in a blog last year: "I can’t tell you how excited I am for 2020!! I have a feeling it’s going to be the craziest year of my life and hopefully the best too!!

"Can’t wait to get started, going to be starting the year off in an extremely good place with the best people around me."