On the 21st March, Frank Meakin, a long-time Combe member and former Club President, passed away peacefully in St Thomas’ hospital following an extended period of ill-health.

Frank was well known throughout the club being a larger-than-life character (in all senses) and an accomplished bon viveur!

He joined Combe in the 70’s and played for every side through the years and aways gave it his all sometimes adding to the trauma of opposing sides by his uncompromising and robust play…..
He was always a good bloke to have on and at one’s side.

He captained several of the teams over the years and was well respected leading as he did by example both on the pitch and at the bar afterwards! Woe betide anyone who placed themselves between Frank and the whip!

For a period he was also involved in the management of the club by assisting on the financial side and running the 200 Club with his dear Krys who has been his devoted wife and confidant throughout his adult life.
His son Jim and daughter in law Aurelija have also been stalwarts to Frank and Krys during the very sad and trying period. Also Frank’s granddaughter Annie has given him so much delight and amusement. It would have helped him on his last journey.

As many of us know, he could be quite irascible at times but was always honest to himself and was deeply committed to doing the best for the club.

Frank was guaranteed to be at the forefront of social events particularly rugby tours and fishing trips, many fellow tourists will vouch for his committed pursuit of fun.

He was also one of the founder members of The Old Gits, an elite group of like-minded Combe members pledged to principles established by Frank.

He will be greatly missed and always fondly remembered. He was one of a kind.

RIP Frank, a good mate to all

Funeral details will be circulated in due course.