A BRITISH armed forces rugby player was found dead today in a popular French seaside resort.

       The player's body was found on a beach in the Brittany region, where the World Defence Rugby competition is being held.

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       The competition was taking place in the popular seaside resort of Dinard in Brittany Credit: Getty 2

       Investigators believe he may have accidentally fallen from the cliffs Credit: Getty

       Local prosecutor Fabrice Tremel said that the player was reported missing shortly before his body was found on a rocky stretch of coast in Dinard.

       Two team coaches confirmed the identity of the player who was taking part in the competition - also known World Military Rugby Championship -- which brings together military teams from 12 allied nations.

       Investigators believe the player may have died in an accidental fall, but an autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday, Tremel said.

       The championship is being played in 26 Brittany venues until September 10 and features 500 players and staff.

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       In their most recent match, Britain beat Spain in the final group-stage encounter and go on to play Fiji in the semi-final on Sunday.