It is with great sadness that we have to pass on the news that Jon Gander died on Tuesday 21st October from a suspected heart attack. Jon was an incredible character who got involved in every single aspect of club life, and he will be sorely missed throughout the club.

We are all deeply saddened by his loss and send our sincere condolences and are thinking of his wife Yoyo, and Jon’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time

Jon joined the club almost 10 years ago and instantly felt at home and made friends everywhere he went. He played for 1st XV, 2nd XV and 3rd XV senior teams over the years, coached various junior sections and was the first to volunteer for any job going around the club - mowing the pitches, working behind the bar, cleaning the changing rooms, Jon would do it all, and he has been instrumental on the committees for the rugby section and overall sports club. He was recognised by the Lancashire RFU as Volunteer of the Year in 2023 and named Old Bedians Clubman of the Year in 2024. Two awards that have never been more deserved.

Jon’s love of rugby was non-stop and when Old Bedians didn’t have a match he would regularly turn out for Looseheadz rugby club and was a strong supporter of the mental health charity. Through the summer Jon would play touch rugby with his wife Yoyo for the Old Bedians touch team and any other team that needed a player!

Beyond rugby Jon was a teacher and still somehow found time to give his time for other causes such as being a Scouts Leader at 23rd Stretford Scouts, volunteering at the Women's Rugby World Cup, donating blood… the list seems endless.

We knew how much Bedians meant to Jon and he meant the world to us all.

We will share any details regarding future plans to remember him in due course.

The club is in shock and the impact of Jon’s death is being felt throughout the club and wider rugby community. We are here to support Yoyo and Jon’s family as well as each other. The club is open for anyone to talk and support one another, please feel free to reach out to the committee or senior players at any time.

The club has set up a fundraising page to help with funeral and legal costs for those who would like to donate: https://www.gofundme.com/f/remembering-jon-gander