Warm tributes to lifelong member of Dursley Rugby Club

Norman Clements, who was a life member of Dursley Rugby Club and the chair from 1972 and1982, died on Saturday, March 2. 

After moving to the area in the 1960s to work on Berkeley Nuclear Power station and living in Wotton-under-Edge, he joined the rugby club and become very involved with it. 

In the late 1960s and early 70s, the club moved to the Stragglers ground and although Norman played for the club's first and second teams, he will be remembered for his off the field contributions. 

Club president John Darlaston has paid Norman a warm tribute, saying the club had 'much to thank him for'. 

Norman Clements being presented with Clubman of the Year by club president Percy Woodland. (Image: Dursley Rugby Club)He said: "On the field Norman was a solid if, not adventuresome, fly half or full back for both the first and second teams.

"However his greatest contribution was off the field particularly in the development of the facilities.

"The move to the Stragglers presented many problems mainly resulting from neglect and the need to accommodate several rugby teams.

"The old pavilion was updated and extended to provide showers and the traditional team bath.

"In the process it was found that the floor was unsafe so Norman negotiated for free, the supply of foundry waste from Listers to under-fill the floor area.

"When new goalposts were needed he arranged to have four, thirty five feet tall lamp standard from the Power Station at no charge.

"These are typical examples of his activities

"Probably the most notable was the removable of roof timbers in the Clubhouse to improve the appearance and increase the height.

"This was fine for a short time when the walls of the Clubhouse started bulging.

"The solution was to install builders ‘Acro’ props which are here to this day, now nicely concealed under the decorative brick pillars.

"The inherited facilities at the Stragglers comprised the old pavilion and the newer clubhouse.

"With the help of voluntary labour Norman project managed the building of what is now the back bar and entrance.

"Most of the project was undertaken with a minimal budget and dependant on volunteers and relatively cheap materials,

"Norman was a great negotiator and motivator!

"The list of his activities is considerable. He also did much to promote the club resulting in support in various ways.

"The contribution made by Norman on the field and particularly off the field set the club on the path to its present success and quality facilities.

"We have much for which to thank him and he will long be remembered."

Norman's funeral will take place on Thursday, March 28 at Westerleigh Crematorium (Woodland Chapel) at 1pm.

Followed after at the Star Inn, Wotton-under-Edge.