UPTON Rugby Club are in mourning following the sudden death of one of the club’s most respected figures who has been described as being a ‘true gentleman’.
The club’s fixtures secretary Nigel Banwell, who had been part of Upton Rugby Club for more than 30 years, died suddenly yesterday (Saturday) after he collapsed while putting out the flags for Upton on Severn’s scheduled clash Midlands West Three South against Evesham.
The Observer understands that the Midlands Air Ambulance was called to the ground at Old Street and due to the devastating circumstances the match was later called off.
Mr Banwell, 68, 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.
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.
Tributes have been paid to Mr Banwell from senior North Midlands officials who worked closely with him over the years.
North Midlands Chairman Charlie Hemmings said: “The news of Nigel’s sudden and untimely death was received with incredulity, absolute shock and deep sadness.
“North Midlands RFU, Upton upon Severn RFC and rugby in general have lost a true gentleman in every sense of the word.
“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.
“My deepest sympathies and condolences are wished to Jane and family and to all who knew Nigel and whom have lost a respected friend and colleague.”
Rob Bray, North Midlands Secretary and Senior Vice President, had known Nigel for more than 30 years.
“I have regarded Nigel as a humble, caring, considerate, and diplomatic friend for whom nothing was too much trouble,” Bray said.
“This blanket of humanity covered a passion for the game of rugby which he has served with distinction as a volunteer at his club Upton-upon-Severn RFC, his county Worcestershire & Herefordshire RFU, roles within the Constituent Body of North Midlands RFU.
“Never one to refuse a request to help, I know that I, all volunteers and grass root rugby players will greatly miss his presence, guidance and friendship. Rest in Peace, Nigel.”
The death of Mr Banwell is yet another sickening blow for Upton Rugby Club who just a fortnight ago had lost one of its most respected players.
Nathan Tomkins, also known by his nickname ‘Tank’ suddenly died at the age of 22 on Christmas Eve.
The club was due to hold a minutes silence in memory of Nathan prior to the Evesham match kicking off.
