Two in court after rugby referee killed in crash

"Rhys was a devoted husband, father and family man and his loss is absolutely devastating for us all," his family says

Two men have appeared in court accused of multiple driving offences after a 41-year-old rugby referee was killed and his nine-year-old son seriously injured in a three-car crash.

Rhys Jenkins and his son were going south in a Yaris on the A483 at Belan, near Welshpool, Powys, at about 18:15 GMT on 16 November when they crashed with a BMW X3 and an Audi S4 going north.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the men, aged 29 and 33, appeared at Welshpool Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

Mr Jenkins' family, from Glynneath in Neath Port Talbot, and his rugby club both said they were "devastated" at his death.

His son remains in hospital, recovering from his injuries.

"Rhys was a devoted husband, father and family man and his loss is absolutely devastating for us all," his family said.

"We are thankful for the support we have received since this truly awful incident and continue to be comforted by the well wishes."

The crash happened on the A483 at Belan, near Welshpool, in Powys

Caereinion Old Boys Rugby Club in Meifod, Powys, posted on Facebook that he was "hugely valued and much loved", and a "dedicated head coach of our under-10 side, devoting much time to support our young players demonstrating his knowledge and passion for the game".

The club said: "He was also a highly respected referee and had refereed games throughout Wales and New Zealand.

"But above all, Rhys was a genuinely nice person who will be greatly missed - not just by his young team - but by everyone associated with the club."

The 29-year-old man is accused of six offences, including drug driving, causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop after a collision.

The 33-year-old man is facing four offences, including causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop after a collision.

Both were remanded into custody, police said, and are due to appear in court again in December.