A rugby has paid tribute to one of its former members who sadly passed away recently.

David Rawling, who was a captain at Carlisle Rugby Club, then turned president, passed away aged 81.

David’s first love, other than his family, was rugby.

This came firstly as a player and then, when those days were over, his time was devoted to coaching the colts VX at Carlisle RFC.

Then, David went into team management, serving on the committee as a club director, before reaching his final role, president, for two years.

Although he retired from active participation, he kept supporting teams from the touchline by offering appropriate advice when needed.

This is something club secretary and long-time colleague of David, Dave Morton, wrote about: “If he said something, you knew it was the voice of experience imparting constructive advice.

“David started his rugby life at Penrith Rugby Club where he was respected as a fearsome front-row forward, rarely taking prisoners as they say.

“A move to Carlisle followed where he continued in the same vein.

“If you had been in a game against him, you certainly knew about it.

“David and his family lived in Dalston on the outskirts of the city, and he was justly proud of the achievements of daughter Sally and her two brothers, Chris and Mike, the latter having a lifelong and continuing association with Carlisle; Mike was a talented utility back and after playing days were over, he coaches junior rugby with not a little success.

“Like father, like son.

“Two of Dave's eight grandchildren continue the family association with Carlisle; 18-year-old Freddie and his younger sibling, Bobby, who is stepping up to colts level.

“Freddie is described as a fine utility back, like his dad, with Bobby described as an outstanding prospect as a scrum half.

“Surely as Dave departs this world on his final journey, one of his regrets will surely be not being able to support the boys in their transition to senior rugby.

“David - as you go forth on your final journey, you can travel secure in the knowledge that you leave behind not only a loving family but a rugby community bereft with the thought that you are no longer with us.

“Rest in Peace dear friend.”

The funeral service for David will be on June 17, at St Michael’s Church in Dalston at 1:30 pm, followed by cremation at Carlisle Crematorium at 2:20 pm.

Then there will be a celebration of David’s life at Carlisle Rugby Club.

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