Old Alleynians RFC

Dear fellow OAFC members,

It is with much sadness that I write to let you know that Ron Blyth passed away last Saturday early morning from a short illness.

Ron was a true Old Alleynian and another genuine Club legend who has sadly passed away in the past year or so, following Rick Wilson, Ron Branscombe, Dick Stevens, Glyn Thomas and recently Joe Crow. The passing of so many of these Club stalwarts and OA’s history men in so short a space of time seems a little unfair – the Club will feel their loss enormously.

There is also much to celebrate and remember of Ron; I’m sure many of you will have your own fond memories.

He attended Dulwich College from 1947-1954, his athletic house was Sydney. He was part of an unbeaten 1st XV in the 1953-54 season, during which time he managed to fit in his rugby, his studies and even become engaged to his first wife!

For the OA’s, Ron immediately took up the prop position on joining the Club for the 1954-55 season and true to form, that year he left his honeymoon a little earlier than expected to play in the traditional Boxing Day fixture vs Old Whitgiftians! He went on to play for the 1st XV from 1954-1975, receiving 313 caps – including three games with a broken neck before it was diagnosed. They simply don’t make them like they used to.

Ron captained the 1st XV in the 1963-64 season, and thereafter was skipper of the A XV and B XV. After his playing days, Ron held pretty much every office within the Club over many years and was made a Vice-President for his services. Not to be outdone by the playing youth, he continued to tour with the Club on overseas “trip” right up until the 2000’s – I could say more, but what goes on tour stays on tour...

Latterly, Ron has been an ever-present supporter at the Club, particularly for the 1st XV’s home games. He always made the effort to get to know everyone at the Club, young and old, and I’m sure I am not the only one who was warmed when walking into the Clubhouse to be greeted by Ron’s booming laugh and hearty handshake. After an afternoon of rugby and one or two “small” glasses of red wine, his loving wife Diana would come and join in with his stories for a while before taking him home – the life and soul of the OAs.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Diana and Ron’s family. He will be sorely missed.

There will be a funeral service in Chislehurst – the date is to be confirmed, and a memorial service at the School Chapel, also the date to be confirmed.

Thank you,

Tim

Hon. Secretary

OAFC

Original Article - Tuesday 27th February 2018