Martyn Thomas (Scrutton 1958-61)

I first met Martyn Thomas some 60 years ago in the main dining room at Mill Hill School. His dad was actually the deputy public prosecutor of England, but Martyn was always destined to live a more unconventional life. Although for a while he was a solicitor at Cyril Chody in Kenton, where a few years later he was joined by another Old Millhillian, Tim Bunyard.

He was a huge stalwart of the Old Millhillians Rugby Club and in those days you must remember we played the likes of London Irish, Northampton, Saracens etc. Their first teams. Martyn would never have described himself as a great player, but he was a galvaniser of men and one year took us to a win over London Irish and almost a win at Northampton.

Continuing on the rugby theme he of course became Chairman of the RFU in 2005 winning a contested vote against Jack Rowell of Bath and England coaching fame, but Martyn had garnered the votes of many small clubs and won his way through. Over the next six years under his leadership England won the right to stage the 2015 World Cup. A very considerable achievement.

Perhaps surprisingly his real calling became farming, first his farm in Market Rasen, then Trehenry with wonderful views over the Brecon Beacons and finally Stembridge near Carmarthen. I was fortunate enough just a few months ago to walk across, with Martyn, the fields of Stembridge and you could feel his love for the land, the animals, the crops. He had found his calling.

His true great love was his wife Pat of course, a 40-year relationship before she left us far too early. And of course, their son Bryn. He and Martyn were very close and in due course Martyn was able to dote on his granddaughter Erin and Bryn and his wife Karen.

His last few months were difficult but made easier by Bryn’s constant presence and support and also Martyn's own never give up personality.

He loved his friends and I know for certain they loved him. He loved life and he lived a life.

Nigel Wray