Professor A. K.Giles O.B.E. was first team captain for three seasons from 1959 and was appointed club historian in 1962. Also in those days the club captain chaired the executive committee. Although Tony had finished playing by the centenary year he was mostly responsible for compiling the history of the club.

Tony was educated first at St. Joseph Williamson Mathematical School, Rochester, Kent and Queen's University, Belfast. It was at university that his rugby reached great heights as there were several Irish and British Lions playing in the team. They included the legendary Irish fly half Jack Kyle (47 caps) and Tony was scrum half. This gives an indication of the rugby knowledge and standards he brought to Clifton.

Tony became a lecturer in Agricultural Economics at Bristol University. He eventually moved on to Reading University gaining a professorship and the O.B.E.

Needless to say, such rugby class and experience gained many admirers, but despite many calls for Bristol RFC Tony remained a Clifton man until he hung up his boots.

There will be a minutes silence as a mark of respect before the match on Saturday November 18th 2023.

John Raine
President