A player, coach, committee member and former Clubman of the Year, "Deano" will be greatly missed by all at Avonvale and across the local rugby community. This was clearly demonstrated by the huge number of people who attended his funeral service on Friday June 2nd 2017 at Bathford Church and by the gathering of so many afterwards at Avonvale Rugby Club.

Avonvale players formed a guard of honour at the church entrance and Deano took the applause of his fellow players and club members he so richly deserved for one last time. The service was a fitting tribute and included readings from family members as well as a short tribute read by Kevin Moggridge, who spoke of Deans love for the Vale and everyone at the Vale' love and affection for Deano.

Although the mood at the club afterwards was one of sorrow for the loss of such a great friend, it was also a great celebration of his short but full life and even included a few photos and a rendition of Swing Low, Sweet Chariot on the top field.

Deano will always remain in the hearts of those who knew him and his spirit will, we know, be with us next season and for many, many years to come.

R.I.P. Deano!