Club saddened by third death in two months (From Daily Echo)

Club saddened by third death in two months

7:56am Friday 30th January 2009 in

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PLAYERS at a rugby club are again in mourning after their president became the third club member to die in just two months.

Norman Cracknell had been at New Milton Rugby Club for more than 20 years. He died in hospital this week following a short illness.

The 65-year-old’s death is the third to hit the organisation in just two months.

Dominic Wood, 49, of Brockenhurst, was found dead in his car in a New Forest car park in November.

The following month, 26-year-old David Stone was found dead in bed at his house in New Milton. He may have died in his sleep.

Club secretary Nick Hamner said: “Norman played a crucial part in the building of the new clubhouse and obtaining funding. He will be missed tremendously – he’s irreplaceable.”

Last night his family told the Daily Echo: “We are devastated at our loss. His Norman-style humour, inspirational advice and reliable support will be greatly missed.”

Mr Cracknell, who lived in Muddeford, leaves a wife and two children. A minute’s silence will be held before the club’s Saturday fixtures this weekend.