Tributes have been paid to a popular rugby player who's body was found last week.

23-year-old Jacob Picken was reported missing on Wednesday night, February 5, and at around 3.45pm on Friday February 7, the body of a man was found in the Kymin area of Monmouth by Gwent Police officers.They formally identified the body as being that of Jacob.His dad, Rob, broke the news to family and friends saying: "Our hearts are broken for the loss of the gentlest soul."Our great sorrow that we have lost our eldest son is tempered by the thought that he will guide us through our future days.’’A former Monmouth Comprehensive pupil and member of Monmouth Rugby Club, Jacob was a popular player, often seen serving behind the bar at the club.Byron Hapgood, President of Monmouth RFC said that Jacob was a much loved member of the club. “Our coaches commented that his robust approach on the field was in stark contrast to his gentle demeanour off it. He came through our Young Rugby Section,Youth, Druids and recently debuted for our 1stXV. Our entire club membership are devastated by this tragic news - our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences go out to his family and closest friends. Our club will do its utmost to support all at this sad time”.Jacob won Youth Colours in 2015.His death comes two years after another popular rugby player, Ted Senior, took his own life, which led the family to start the Ted Senior Foundation which pays for one individual within each sports club at University who has undergone training in mental health first aid.Another talented Monmouth Rugby Club player, Max Davies took his life while on a family holiday which prompted the family to launch the Mind Step Foundation.The aim is understanding, prevention and support through sports-themed workshops as well as funding research into clinical depression.The Old Momothian Club for former boys of Monmouth school said it was “with huge sadness, we have learned of the tragic loss of Jacob Picken. Jacob’s father Rob is a member of the Masters’ Common Room, teaching English”Friends are invited to leave messages of condolence at [email protected] family tribute said: “ “We want Jacob’s passing not to have been in vain and we are keen that this should lead to positive change in the way that we all approach mental health issues. For that reason, we want to open honest dialogue regarding what we all need to do to help our children in the future. Jacob has given us this opportunity and we intend to take it. With all the love that Jacob consistently showed for his friends and family.”The Ted Senior foundation said that they were completely heartbroken to hear this tragic news. “Our thoughts go out to all of Jacob’s family and friends, and everyone at Monmouth RFC”. Gwent Police are not treating the death as suspicious.