Gary was the eldest son of our Honorary Treasurer Martyn and his wife Chrissie, and a member of our community since mini rugby, as were his 2 brothers, Paul and Jonny.

Pictured: Jonny, Gary & Paul

Many of you will be aware that Gary had Muscular Dystrophy, a progressively debilitating condition and one that Gary took on and fought so bravely against, always determined not to let it stop him doing the things he loved. He was literally at the club in recent weeks with Jonny, watching the Six Nations and only last Saturday was due to attend a Villa game. Gary was a regular supporter of the Senior Teams, and members will have often seen him cheering on the team.

But last weekend, Gary was suddenly taken ill and passed away in Burton Hospital in the early hours of Tuesday.

Death at any age is always a shock, but losing a child is always more difficult, and our thoughts and prayers remain with Martyn, Chris and family and Lucy, his loving wife, at this difficult time.

In time, we hope that our Rugby Club community will help them move forward on life’s difficult and often challenging journey.