Club
Former Players tribute to Gareth Davies
It is rare when such a large community including the town, County and beyond, is saddened by the death of one of its legends. Such is the case at the recent passing of Gareth Davies, unquestionably a ‘Man’s Man’ and a ‘Player’s Person’.
During his life in Bedford, as a sportsman and school teacher, Gareth served the community to the highest standards. Countless persons in Bedford owe much to Gareth for what he taught them. In his former professional capacity as a PE Teacher at local schools, he instilled into his students the principles of discipline, teamwork, fair play and decency. On the playing field, he also epitomised those principles.
Gareth was the analogy of a Blackpool stick of rock. In his case, Bedford Blues was clearly evident in every respect. During his playing days Gareth represented each of the teams run by Bedford Rugby Club, some as team captain. His preferred position was as fly-half, although during his playing time wore every other jersey in the backs. His record of 12 drop goals in one season (1971-1972) still stands.
Since hanging up his boots Gareth continued to serve the club in various capacities. In 2003, Gareth was named as President remaining so until Geoff Irvine became Honorary President. In this very important duty, as throughout most of his life, he was supported by his beloved Marie. Together they attended just about every home, and most of the away fixtures, the club played. Gareth and Marie were justifiably honoured with Life Membership, Marie being the first woman to be so.
Gareth was involved with other key figures of the club in the founding of the Junior Blues, and later initiated the Junior Blues connection with Salles in France.
During the week of Gareth’s passing, the Olympic Games in Paris were opened. A symbolic event in that ceremony is the lighting of the Olympic Torch. At Bedford Rugby Club, Gareth most definitely represented that torch for its significance in burning brightly throughout the Olympic games, and as it is extinguished, becomes an ember. In Gareth’s case it will never go out, but remain for many of our lifetimes, a perfect reminder of what Gareth gave, and meant to so many.
In essence, the qualities that made Gareth special were his kindness and sincerity, a love for life and the caring of and for others, and his unwavering loyalty.
May he Rest in Peace.
Our thoughts, sympathy, sympathy love and condolences to Marie and Lucy.
*Words by David Burgess
