We are sad to report the recent passing of former 1st XV Captain and Chairman George Giles.

George turned up at pre-season training in the summer of 1988 as a back five forward, having recently moved to the area after taking on the role of Manager at the Burnley Branch of the Royal Bank of Scotland.
Hailing from Wigan he had a long association with the town’s Rugby Union Club and prior to joining Clitheroe had a spell at Old Otliensians in Yorkshire.

Georges early claim to fame was being the proud owner of a pair of kangaroo skin rugby boots [so he said], sadly it made little difference to his line out jumping technique.

His 1st XV debut came on the 3rd September 1988 v Colne & Nelson and he scored from the No 8 position in a 22-0 win.

He succeeded Graeme Tindall as Captain for the 1991-92 season and had 3 good seasons in the role.
The highlight, undoubtedly, was leading the Club to promotion in the 92-93 season. He made a solid lock partnership with Mick Duxbury and although the team was blessed with talented players; George’s organisational & leadership skills were evident throughout his tenure.

A firm believer in the work hard; play hard, ethos – he threw himself into the social side with enthusiasm. Whether it be introducing the popular ‘Captains Dinners’ or getting stuck in on many memorable tours.

As his playing days wound down he served as Chairman for five years from 1994, taking over from Dougie Woodburn.

Although not a regular in latter years at CRUFC he spent a great deal of time living in sunnier climes.

We extend our condolences and sympathy to Margret and his children Simon and Bev.