Sidmouth RFC welcomed four new life members to their ranks with special presentations made during the Patrons Lunch that was held before the league meeting with Tiverton at the Blackmore, writes Terry O’Brien.
The four honoured were: John Mortimore - who is one of the club’s longest continuous member. He joined the club in the 1946-47 season, the first full season after the war, as a member of the newly formed Colts team. He eventually graduated to the first team and was captain for two seasons from 1956 to 1958. On retiring, he was elected onto the committee, on which he served for 20 years. John has performed many tasks for the club over the years and will be particularly remembered for his support of the colts, when they were re-formed by Stan Baker in 1965. He even refereed the occasional game, when a society ref was not available. He rarely misses a match and is a fixture in ‘Old Farts Corner’ after games.
Clive Dwerryhouse - who is approaching 50 continuous years as a member, having joined the colts in 1968-69. He was a member of the colts team, which won the prestigious Tiverton Seven’s in 1970 and 1971. On retiring from playing, he was elected onto the committee in 1978 and served until 2006.
During his time on the committee, he spent a period as team secretary and as manager of the colts. However, he is best remembered for his work as groundsman, which he continued until last season. Like John, he rarely misses a game and writes the occasional match report, when necessary.
Malcolm Barratt- who has been involved with the club for about 25 years.
He did not play rugby himself, but became involved, when his son Neil joined the mini-section.
Not being content with being a spectator, he soon became actively involved and took over as chairman of the juniors as they were celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the section in 1996, when he also joined the committee. He remained on the committee after his time as junior chairman ended in 2001. He soon took on the management of the clubhouse and bar, which he continued until last year. He has always been one of the first to volunteer to help with events and do odd bits of repair work around the club.
Sally Barratt - They say that behind every successful man there is strong supportive woman, and so it is with Malcolm. In running the junior section, Malcolm and Sally were a terrific double act.
After the juniors, Sally continued to support Malcolm in his new role as well as taking on the role of membership secretary. She continues to make a significant contribution by running the 300 Club, the Christmas Draw and organising the Patrons Lunches.
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