WELSH basketball great Alan Williams has died aged 76.

Having suffered a stroke five years ago, Mr Williams was cared for at Blaen-y-Pant Nursing Home in Malpas and died at Newport's Royal Gwent Hospital on Friday.

He first started playing basketball during his National Service with the Army and when he returned home he played for Newport Basketball Club.

He was awarded his first cap for Wales in 1958 and went on to make 66 appearances for his country, including many as captain.

He was selected to represent Great Britain for the Olympic qualifying tournaments in 1960, 1964 and 1968.

During his basketball career he also played for Pill YMCA, Newport Excelsiors and Vauxhall Motors.

"Alan was a great stalwart of the sport in Wales and Britain and will be sadly missed," said Basketball Wales chairman Phil John.

Mr Williams' funeral is due to take place in St Pauls Church, Commercial Street, Newport, on Friday, June 1, at 3pm. That will be followed by cremation at the Gwent Crematorium at 4pm.

There will be family flowers only but donations are requested for Basketball Wales and can be sent to the funeral directors: Michael G Ryan, 106-108 Malpas Road, Newport NP20 5PL.