Kelso Rugby Football Club are saddened to learn of the passing of former player, captain, President and Life Member of the Club, Tom Laing.
Tom had a distinguished playing career within the club as an ever present in the first team at scrum half going on to play for the South and was chosen as a reserve for Scotland against Ireland and England in 1956. Sadly substitutes were not allowed in those days and the illusive cap did not come his way. He captained the club during the 1956/57 season.
His move to rugby administration saw him emulate his father and become President of the club in 1983/84 and 84/85. This followed spells filling many roles within the committee. Tom and the family presented the John Laing trophy in 1978 in memory of his father for Junior Sevens at the Club, a trophy which is still played for and one which Tom took great pride in presenting to the winners on many occasions.
He was rewarded for all his hard work and dedication to the club with a Life Membership and until poor health stopped him, he was still a regular at lunches and games at Poynder Park.
Kelso Rugby Club extends its sincere condolences to his daughter, Diane, and all Tom’s family and many friends. He will be sorely missed down at Poynder Park.
Tom Laing's funeral will take place on Thursday 7th September in Kelso North Parish Church at 12.30 pm.
Neil Hastie
President Kelso RFC.
