A couple of weeks ago I received the sad news that one of my playing contemporaries Dave Thompson aka “Lurpac” was seriously ill with pancreatic cancer, thankfully I was able to see Dave one last time at the Hospice of the Good Shepard.

I have just heard the very sad news that Dave passed away last Friday.

Dave was a combative and skilful hooker in the good old days when hookers did actually hook the ball, a great player on the field and always good company after the game.

Dave was a true front row forward it was always nice to win a match but what really mattered was how many balls you took against the head.

Dave played most of his rugby in the lower teams but towards the end of his playing days he had a purple patch as regular 2nd XV hooker and understudy to Owen Michael, getting a few 1st team games when Owen was not available.

His proudest moment came at the Annual dinner at the old Hotel Victoria in New Brighton back in 1980 after having been voted “Player of the Year” for the 2nd XV he received his award from welsh legend Phil Bennett. I’ll never forget the smile on his face that night and how his clung to his award. "What a night," he said, "voted player of the year by my team mates and receiving the award from Phil Bennett."

Dave was an all action and skilful player, not just a good hooker, a very good player in the loose as well but he did have a habit of charging into things head first hence the nickname “Lurpac” (best butter in the world), unfortunately it was often his teammates on the receiving end.

Dave was a player you always wanted in your team, an exceptionally good player often under rated, good company after the game and a really good bloke.

Dave was also a devoted family man so I know you will all join me in sending our sincere condolences to Lyn & the family.

Dave’s funeral will take place at 3.20pm on Monday 10th June at Blacon Crematorium, Blacon Avenue, Chester CH1 5BB.

Dave’s family have extended an invitation for Dave’s friends & team mates to join them after the funeral at the Old Mill Farm, Kinsey Road, Ellesmere Port CH65 9JY (near Cheshire Oaks)