News
Obituary | Gareth Davies
The club is saddened to share the heartbreaking news of the passing of a true legend of the club, Gareth Davies, at the age of 83 following his recent illness.
Undoubtedly one of the most iconic figures at Goldington Road, Gareth epitomised Bedford Blues and everything that makes the club so special.
The outpouring of condolence highlights just how much Gareth was respected and liked, not just at Bedford Blues, but within the town and the wider rugby family.
A proud Welshman, born in Cefneithin, Davies first ventured over the border to London for his work as a teacher, before finding home in Bedford and Westfield School.
He played 81 games for the Bedford Blues first-team, plus countless others for the club’s Rams, Wanderers and Rovers sides – many of which as captain of those respective teams.
Still the record holder for most drop goals in a single season in the club’s illustrious history (12 in 1971-72), Gareth made his name as a kicking fly-half, contributing close to 200 points.
He wore every single jersey in the backs division at some point during his time as a player, before hanging up his boots in 1988. He also represented Llanelli and London Welsh during his career.
After retirement, Gareth remained the most popular of figures at Goldington Road and alongside his wife, Marie, were present at almost every single fixture, home or away.
Officially he served as Team Manager from 1998-2001, but was always present in the kit room at the club for many years afterwards. In 2003, Gareth was named the club’s 21st President, a role he held for 18 years.
There will be few people who have given more time and dedication to Bedford Blues than Gareth. Made a Life Member in 2001, it was apt that Marie followed suit as the first woman bestowed with the honour in 2009.
Gareth’s legacy to Bedford Blues and the town is unquestionable, also visible in our Junior Blues set-up which is still going strong as English rugby’s third biggest mini junior section, over 50 years after Gareth and former teammates helped lay the foundations for its creation.
A true rugby man who will be sorely missed by all those who knew him. The thoughts of everyone at Bedford Blues are with Marie, Lucy and their family and friends at this difficult time.
Our club flag will fly at half-mast for the foreseeable future in Gareth’s memory.
Nos Da, Gareth.
