Roy first played for Lyons Rugby Club in 1965 and this was the beginning of a life-long affiliation. The club moved to the UCS ground in Osterley in 1968, when Centaurs RFC was founded. Roy was very instrumental in this transition and claimed to be the man who came up with the Centaurs name. 

As a loose head prop, Roy played for the 1^st XV regularly until !976, including 2 seasons as 1^st XV Captain (1974-76). As a dedicated clubman, he continued playing for the lower sides for many years afterwards before switching to becoming a referee for the London Society – a role he relished, even though he was occasionally less popular when refereeing some Centaurs matches. No favouritism was shown!

Roy also excelled as Centaurs Social Secretary in the early 80’s, organising a number of excellent, if rather drunken events, which would have been quite memorable had less beer been imbibed!

Roy was born in Kentish Town in 1943, and his early career was as a Computer Operator for English Electric Leo Computers, based in Hartree House, Queensway – the source of a number of club members due to the Leo/Lyons connection. When EELC was merged into the newly created ICL, Roy turned to sales which proved to be a sound move as he became one of ICL’s top salesmen, resulting in an extended assignment in Hong Kong, where, not surprisingly, he got involved with the rugby club & the international HK 7’s.

Subsequently, Roy spent some years as a director at ASE Consulting, including a 2-year stay running the USA operation. Having retired, in 2002 he, Ba & Nick moved to Devizes. This opened another chapter. Nick, was playing at prop for Devizes U14s, so Roy started coaching them and moved up with him and the age groups until he was coaching Dorset & Wilts.

Clearly a man of diverse talents.

Roy was a committed Centaur to his core and a stalwart of Centaurs Past Players to the end. He was also a great party host, dedicated family man and a Captain Sensible on Tour who failed dismally in his efforts to keep the lads in order!

We shall miss him.