Tributes have flowed for a long-serving and popular member of the Carlisle Rugby Union Club.
Dave Rawling, a former captain and later president, has died aged 81 and his funeral service has been arranged for Friday, June 17.
A fearsome front-row forward in his prime he had the rare distinction of being captain of both Penrith and Carlisle 1st XV’s.
Outside his family circle his first love was rugby football, firstly as a player and when those days were over he devoted his time to coaching the Colts XV at Carlisle RFC.
He then moved on to team management, serving as a committee man, as a director of the club before finally serving as the president at Carlisle for two years.
Despite retiring from active participation he continued to support teams from the touchline with an offering of appropriate advice where needed.
Carlisle secretary and long-time colleague Dave Morton said: “If he said something you knew it was the voice of experience imparting constructive advice.
“He had started his rugby life at the 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 life-long and continuing association with Carlisle.
“Mike was a talented utility back and after his 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.”
Indeed at the recent club presentation evening Mike had the pleasure of presenting the Colts’ Players’ Player of the Year award to son Freddie.
The funeral service will take place on June 17 at St Michael’s Church, Dalston at 1.30pm followed by cremation at Carlisle Crematorium at 2.20pm.
Then follows a celebration of Dave’s life at Carlisle Rugby Club.
