Keith initially joined the club in 1985, making numerous appearances in all club sides and his first-team debut in 1987. I played alongside Keith who had come on as a replacement prop in a fine win over rivals Old Redcliffians.

Keith worked at Rolls Royce for most of his life and was as we say, a “larger than life character.” Forever keen on his outwardly appearance, he was often found trying to be the fashion beau and one of his fads was to don a French beret, which he wore with pride. I believe he was one of only a few remaining members who could not only find their club cardigans from the Late 80's, but could also fit into it.

The past five or so years of ill health had undoubtedly taken its toll on Keith, but he battled on through all of his sometime extreme treatment, and still managed to visit the club he was proud of right up until last week when he returned to Shaftesbury Park to watch the lads going through their paces from the stand.

Coach trips will not be the same without the thought-provoking conversation had by all of the travelling faithful who loved nothing more than to wind Keith up and watch him go off on one.

Personally, Keith was a good friend to me and my family throughout the 80's and early 90's and he will be missed by all who had the good fortune to meet him.

Sadly Keith leaves a heartbroken family in wife Dianne, daughter Claire, her partner Damian and nearly one-year-old grandson who he was so proud of, Rafferty, as well as his brothers Mike, Derek, Dave and Andy.

Details of funeral arrangements will be made public at the appropriate time.

All at Dings Crusaders will miss Keith - a true character. R.I.P.

Steve Lloyd
Dings Crusaders' Chair