Bridgnorth RFC

The funeral will take place on Friday 7 July at 11am St. Mary's Church, Bridgnorth. Wake at 1 pm at Bridgnorth Golf Club.

Family only burial at Bridgnorth cemetry at Noon

John Adrian Penant Thomas

Adrian was born and raised in Caernarfon, North Wales and worked as a civil engineer. He and his wife Judith moved into Bridgnorth in the late 60’s. A keen rugby man Adrian played for the First XV during the 70’s enjoying many games during a successful playing period for the club. He was a hard tackling and uncompromising full back - though he wasn’t the quickest!

Following two years as Chairman (1980/82) Adrian devoted hours of his time over many years as the Honorary Treasurer of BRFC. He was also a member of the team that oversaw the purchase, refurbishment and running of The Bull, spending a considerable amount of time making sure that the beer was up to the mark! He also planned and helped to organise the ‘Rent a Man’ fund raising initiative which, thanks to many willing volunteers, raised much needed finance to further develop the club’s facilities. He had a major influence in the purchase of the Edgar Davies Ground circa 2003/4 and would dearly have loved to see the fantastic new build that is currently taking place on that hallowed turf.

Not one to suffer fools gladly Adrian could be very direct, but his intended outcomes would always generally work out to be to the betterment of the club. A true club stalwart Adrian was made a Life Member for his unstinting efforts and service and later joined his very good friend Edgar as a Vice President of Crawshay’s Rugby Club. They really enjoyed each other’s company, especially when Edgar needed support in later years as they embarked on visits to Cardiff, Cambridge and various other rugby venues. The famed Crawshay’s exotic trips, European Golden Oldies and BRFC ‘final fling’ tours were all enthusiastically supported and enjoyed by Adrian. Memories made and shared with good rugby friends over five decades. We will miss his generosity of spirit, loyalty, support and much valued friendship. RIP Adrian.