Moseley Rugby Club is mourning the loss of its former chairman and president Tony Thomas who has died after a five-year battle with cancer.

During his long association with the club, the much-loved 65-year-old held several posts including club secretary, chairman, president and vice president.

A robust wing-forward with the colts and junior sides of Moseley, he also played for Birmingham & Solihull, the Law Society and Old Edwardians.

He also made his presence felt off the pitch as one of the driving forces behind the early mini and junior set-up, which he coached and led as chairman for many years.

He also helped keep the club together during its exile at Bournbrook when he helped set up the member’s committee. Latterly the respected solicitor and deputy district judge represented Moseley’s players at disciplinary hearings on a voluntary basis.

Mr Thomas was educated at Rugby School and soon after qualifying, when he was admitted to the Supreme Court as a solicitor in 1969, he won a scholarship to work in Canada.

During his time there he played for the Meralomas Vancouver and was awarded the most versatile player of the 1969-70 season.

He returned to work at several law firms, including Glaisyers, before joining Thomas & Co in Kings Heath.

He died on Sunday, August 7, and is survived by his wife Jackie and five sons. His funeral will take place at St Agnes Church in Moseley on Monday, August 15, at 11am.