BRIDGWATER & ALBION MOURNS SAD LOSS OF LONG-TIME SUPPORTERS
In the last few weeks, the deaths of three of our long-time supporters has brought sad news to the club.
Janice Mansfield
Janice is the wife of long-time Albion supporter Peter Mansfield and she sadly passed away in mid-October. Janice had strong connections to the club in that her father Jack Taylor was a stalwart in our club sides following the Second World War, playing in both our 1st and 2nd XV’s and also becoming President of the club for one season in the mid-1990’s. In addition, Janice’s brother Mike Taylor also played for all of our club sides from Colts upwards and was captain of the 1st XV in the 1976/77 and 1977/78 seasons. Janice’s nephew Michael Taylor (son of Mike) also played in our Colts and senior XV’s before moving on to North Petherton. Janice’s own son Paul Anthony also appeared in our Colts and senior XV’s and later played for Morganians.
The funeral takes place at St Mary’s Church on Monday 15 December at 11 am.
Emrys William (Bill) David Staples
Our regular supporter Bill Staples passed away aged 91 on 19 November. Bill first took up rugby football whilst serving in the Somerset Light Infantry. On leaving the service, he briefly played at Bridgwater & Albion before moving to play for North Petherton RFC along with friends and family. In later years, Bill has supported the playing careers of his two sons David and Paul both of whom have played in our senior XV’s, David also acting as manager of the 2nd XV whilst Paul captained the Veterans XV for some seasons, as well as being Chairman of the club for one season a few years ago. In addition, Bill’s granddaughter Danielle (daughter of Paul) has also played in our Women’s XV and she also assisted the club committee by acting as secretary for three seasons recently. Bill always enjoyed his visits to the club for our home matches and the club has relished his keen support.
Bill’s funeral is being held at Sedgemoor Crematorium on Friday 19 December at 10 am.
Brian Foxwell
Brian Foxwell who farmed for many years on the extremities of Bridgwater towards the North Petherton boundary recently passed away. Brian was an ace supporter of many local organisations – particularly local sporting clubs in the Bridgwater and North Petherton areas. He was also a stalwart supporter of Somerset County Cricket Club. Brian always enjoyed bringing his band of fellow farmers and other acquaintances in to Bridgwater & Albion’s matches when the Friends of the club hosted lunches prior to 1st XV games. His support was renowned and the enjoyment clearly mutual.
Brian’s funeral is being held at North Petherton Church on Tuesday 9 December at 11.30 am.
Bridgwater & Albion RFC sends its sincere condolences to all bereaved family and friends of our treasured supporters with the club’s grateful thanks for their significant support during their lifetimes.
Scribe
Category: Club News
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