"Fleets", as he was known to many of us, had been a dedicated and active Club member for many years. First as a player (including as 1st XV Captain), then as Club Captain for 7 seasons from 1983-91 and as an ARFC coach, though his contribution went far wider.

For the last five seasons, he had coached our Colts team and took them to new levels of success. He will be hugely missed by the Colts and by his many friends at ARFC.

His funeral is on Friday 23 February at 2pm Basingstoke Crematorium, and then to the Rugby Club.

Alan's wife, Kathryn, has asked for no flowers but a donation to St Michaels hospice in lieu of flowers. If you would like to make a donation this can be done via Charles Read and Daughter funeral directors.

Alan wants bright colours including rugby tops, etc, and not for people to wear black.

Our sincerest thoughts are with Alan's family at this incredibly difficult time.