Des was a former President of Guildford & Godalming RFC, one of the parent Clubs of Guildford RFC from 1995-2000, and held a number of roles within Surrey Rugby, including as President of Surrey from 2001 to 2003.
Des' contribution to rugby at Broadwater and in Surrey goes far beyond the positions he has held over the past 40 years. A former centre for Leinster, Des was one of the founders of youth rugby at Broadwater where his son Adrian learned his craft before going on to play a number of games for the 1st XV. Des has always been a quiet, humble servant of his Club and County and a fan of the game, more comfortable asking how he can help than seeking recognition for his actions. Indeed, many of the hundreds of players both at Guildford and throughout Surrey, whose lives he has touched over the years had no idea of the support he had provided.
Over the years, Dr Des has been a fixture on the touchline at Guildford and in the pre-match lunches, pint of Guinness in hand and ready with a quiet word of advice for players that needed it. At a time when our game is discussing inclusivity, acceptance and mental health issues and trying to figure out its place in the modern world, it it's worth remembering the values that Des taught us.
Our thoughts are with his wife Judy and family at this time.
Donations would be welcome to the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice c/o J. Gorringe & Son Funeral Directors, Farncombe.
