Old Yardleians RFC: Club News
FAREWELL COLIN JOHN THOMPSON
Wed, 09 Jul 2014 12:00
The sun reflected off the many bare heads as we gathered to say our good byes to Kiwi. Phil Painter and his colleagues yet again displayed their organisational skills and the Old Yards rugby fraternity filled the chapel to overflowing. Having been raised on Latin masses it was interesting to attend a humanist service. Stephen, the Civil Celebrant (I think that's the title), provided a moving service and thanks also to Steve Chinn for sharing his memories of Kiwi with us.
As Kiwi would have expected it was back to the club for refreshments and a chat with old friends. Luckily, we got back ahead of Peter the fridge so there was some food still available. It was good to see John Ross and his Kynock mates as Kiwi had a close friendship with that particular club. Also, the lads from Edwardians, most of whom played for the Yards at one time or another.
There were so many good people who came to show their respects that it was impossible to have a chat with them all but Kiwi had rugby playing cousins in Coventry and it was good to go over the meetings between ourselves and Keresley with my old friend Steve Freemantle. Robin Sadler reminded us of his drop goal feats, 100% failure and Simon Pigden, John Power and Mark Prentice have all promised to come and watch a few games next season.
We would like to thank all of those good folk who helped in one way or another to make a sad occasion so memorable.