UPTON Rugby Club has been left in devastation following the sudden death of one of its longest-serving members just weeks after the passing of one of its most ‘gifted’ players.
Fixtures secretary Nigel Banwell, 68, who had been part of Upton Rugby Club for more than 30 years, died on Saturday after he collapsed while preparing the pitch for a home league clash against Evesham.
This follows the devastating loss of the club’s talented flanker Nathan Tomkins – also known to his friends as ‘Tank’ – who died suddenly on Christmas Eve at the age of 22.
The club was set to honour Nathan with a minute’s silence ahead of Saturday’s match but because of the shocking events which unfolded, the club was unable to do so.
Upton Rugby president Maurice Bottomley told the Observer both men were influential figures at the club and would be greatly missed.
“In the space of two weeks the club has lost one of its most gifted players and one of our longest-serving supporters – two truly inspirational figures from different generations, and both true Upton rugby men,” he said.”
“Without such stalwarts rugby would not be the game it is, where people like Nathan and Nigel put themselves out to support others, and enjoy themselves in the company of like-minded people.
“I offer my deepest condolences to both families and know that my fond memories of Tank and Nigel will help me to get through the coming weeks, and support me in my life going forwards. Two great men who both died far too early.”
As well as being a stalwart of Upton, Mr Banwell was president of the North Midlands RFU a role which saw him devote a lot of his time to rugby in Worcestershire, Herefordshire and the North Midlands.
He leaves a widow, Jane, son Oliver, who is Upton’s head coach, and daughter Ruth, who lives in Australia. He taught woodwork at the Elgar High School in Worcester before retirement.
Many tributes have described Mr Banwell as true gentleman.
Mr Bottomley added: “Everyone who knew Nigel had a kind word for him and he served rugby with distinction as a player, club man, official and friend to all.
“As a club, Upton were fortunate to have Nigel within our ranks, and the same is true of his son Oliver who coaches the club.”
North Midlands Chairman Charlie Hemmings said: “The news of Nigel’s sudden and untimely death was received with incredulity, absolute shock and deep sadness.
“His charm, knowledge, experience, measured and thoughtful, quiet and respected opinions will be sorely missed as will his devoted and committed input to both his county representative and club duties.”
Many tributes have also been paid to Mr Tomkins – a former Hanley Castle High School pupil – with a Facebook group titled ‘Nathan ‘Tank’ Tomkins’ set up in his memory allowing people to share photos and their memories of him.
His heartbroken brother Matt, 29, told the Observer: “Nathan was the life and soul of the party. He was the kind of person who could talk to and get on well with anybody.
“He loved rugby from a young age and was very proud to play for Upton. He also loved the social side of it and made many friends along the way.
“The family have been blown away by the messages of support and the number of tributes paid to him on Facebook. We are very grateful for people’s support.”
Nathan’s funeral will be held on Friday, January 27 at 12pm at St Peter and St Paul’s Church in Upton upon Severn.
In a heartfealt Facebook post to the tribute group, Matt has asked for anyone who knew Nathan to come along and celebrate his life by wearing bright clothes.
