On Monday 18^th September 2006, I as were many of you, were very upset to hear of the death of John Credland.

 

On Tuesday I telephoned his Father to offer our sincere condolences.  I had a long conversation with him and John’s Godfather.

 

John Credland arrived to play for Harlow 2002 after completing Studies at university and taking up a post at GSK.  It was apparent from the outset that John was a really nice guy.  On the pitch he was a good, very hard, very committed but exceptionally fair and honest player.  The kind of guy that would hit you so hard in the tackle that when he picked you up you had no wind to say thanks, before he ran off to crash into the next ruck, maul or tackle.

 

It was clear to sear that John had a scar to his head.  With rugby players having that honest open sometimes intrusive mentality someone asked John about his scar.  I can’t recall word for word his reply, but it was similar to ‘It’s just scar’.  

Many of us soon became aware that John had had an operation to his Brain and had undergone chemo therapy.

What I don’t think we were aware of is that John’s illness was likely to be terminal with no timescale.

 

John was fully committed to playing Rugby at Harlow whatever team he was representing.  John continued to play Rugby at Harlow representing the 1stXV making 20 appearances in 2002/03 season.

 

When John returned to Doctors they were amazed and shocked that he was back playing Rugby, however they were happy for him to continue playing as this was making him happy, fulfilling his dreams and having no ill effects.

 

In 2004 John moved to Cambridge area taking up a job opportunity.  Despite our efforts to keep him playing at Harlow John unfortunately left to play for Cambridge in this season. 

 

At Cambridge John made several 1^st team appearances over his time at the Club as they have risen to National League 2 status.

 

Whilst away from Harlow, he kept in touch with several of the boys and even managed a trip to the Eastern Block on Crumpys Stag Do.  I know a few of us have bumped into John whilst playing away matches and enjoyed a few beers and a good chat with him after the game.

John had a further operation in December last year.  However, John did not let this get him down.  He continued in his love for excitement, the outside life, adventure sports and Charity work.  John had been living with a friend on a Long Boat on the River Cam.

 

In the last few months John had Rowed for Cambridge and had taken part in Canoeing, Camping and Walking expeditions.  With University Friends John had recently completed a 100 mile Cycle Ride for Charity.  John was also in the process of returning to University to continue his studies aiming at a Masters Degree.

 

In the last few days John had been canoeing and rafting with friends on the River Wye again raising monies for Charity.  John passed away peacefully on Tuesday 29^th August 2006.

 

Unfortunately Harlow Rugby Club was unable to represent itself at John’s funeral, but I have been told that it was a colourful affair with over 500 people in attendance.  Over 7 Barrels of Beer were drunk.  His Father said it was an excellent celebration of his 27yrs.   

 

A Trust Fund is in the process of being set up likely to be in line with Addenbrookes Hospital.  I hope to have more details about this soon.

 

It is my intention to conduct a Memorial Game between either Harlow and Cambridge or perhaps West Norfolk which is John’s Fathers Club.

 

John Credland a good hard honest and fair Rugby player and a thoroughly nice chap.