We are desperately sad to have to come to terms with the sudden death of Philip Bell last Friday.

At this time we do not have the full details, as soon as we find out more the funeral arrangements will be circulated.

Phil was an integral part of our club – very much its life and soul and a very dear friend to all of us.

He started playing in the early 80’s and was voted best player in the ’85 season. He went on to captain the 1st XV and then on to become club chairman. More recently he has represented H&WRFC on Sussex committees’ , handled senior fixtures, been in charge of upkeep of all pitches and been a wonderful scribe, travelling to all away games for both Men’s and Ladies fixtures and producing match reports that even other clubs admitted to waiting to read!

When Mike Macleod approached me about becoming President, I first went to Phil and asked him why he did not take the role – with typical dry humour he commented - ‘no I am a back room boy now and you can have all the fun and games of front of house!’

To say that he will be badly missed by all sections of the club is the understatement of the year and it will be a long time before we can come to terms with the gap that he has left.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and other close friends outside of our club.

Sadly yours,
Robin
H&WRFC President