Tribute to charity friend David Duckham

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity, pays tribute to David Duckham, who has passed away at the age of 76.

David Duckham was a former Coventry, English, and British & Irish Lions back, and a patron at the charity, helping to raise important funds through its annual Rugby Lunch.

Mark Powell, CEO of Diverse Abilities, commented: “David was a true friend of Diverse Abilities, and helped start and attend our Rugby Lunch with our former trustee John Kennar. The Rugby Lunch has continued to run for the past 12 years and has raised more than £300,000 towards our cause.

“If David has a serious side, we didn’t see it, and he was one of the funniest men around. Though we are so very sad at this news, we take time to reflect on his humour, ideas, and the significant funds he helped raise over the years for the charity.

“He was a superstar on the field, and for Diverse Abilities. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”

Throughout his Rugby Union career, David Duckham made his international debut in the 1960s, won 36 England caps, and was part of the 1971 London squad defeating New Zealand as part of the British Lions tour.