Farewell to rugby club hero Kevin (From Penarth Times)

Farewell to rugby club hero Kevin

KEVIN Bush, the President of Penarth RFC, died on January 18, after a 56-year connection with the club.

His funeral service at St Albans Church, Carlisle Street, Splott, on Monday, January 30, was well attended. The bearers were Tom and Geraint Evans, Greg Swaine, Mike Clare, Jason Allen and Paul Gooding.

Kevin was born in May 1929 in Splott and from an early age enjoyed sport. He played rugby, soccer, baseball and athletics.

During his years at St Illtyd's Grammar School his love of rugby developed, and while there he was selected to play in the Welsh Schools Rugby International Trials.

Kevin then attended St Mary's College Strawberry Hill, Twickenham. During this time and his National Service with the Education Corps he gained experience at senior rugby playing for London Welsh, Plymouth Albion and Devonport Services.

Returning to South Wales he joined the Penarth Club in 1950. He handled and kicked the ball with great skill and was courageous to tackle.

He commanded the respect of players and officials of the Merit Table clubs and made the full back position his own.

The quality of his play caught the eye of the selectors and he was chosen to play in the Welsh International trial matches in the season 1953/54.

During the final trial the full back position against the 1953 New Zealand All Blacks was awarded to Gerwyn Williams of London Welsh.

During the period 1951 to 1959 Kevin played against the Barbarian FC eight times. He captained the team in 1953/55 and although promised that he would one day be invited to play for the Barbarians, this did not happen.

Further honours came when he represented the Glamorgan County XV, which he also captained and served as president.

Retiring from playing after a serious knee injury he joined the Penarth committee. His skills as an organiser and administrator soon became apparent when given the role of Fixtures Secretary.

He was voted Chairman several times, including 1979/80 when the club celebrated its centenary. That year he was made an Honorary Life Member. He later accepted the Presidency of the Club, a position he held until his death.

Over the years club members have been constantly reminded of the affection and esteem that former players, officials and clubs throughout Wales and across the border held for him.

He was a great sportsman and gentleman. His qualities of modesty and loyalty were the hallmark in all that he did at home, at work and for his club.

So ends an era, Kevin will be sadly missed by his family, friends and by his beloved club Penarth.

The dedicated and loyal contribution of 56 years service to the club as a player and an official will not go unrecognised.

A memorial game is to be organised. A trophy in his name will be awarded each year to a member of the club who has given outstanding service.