Rovers supporters and friends across the north-east will be saddened to hear of the death of Bill Dale. Bill passed away this morning, Wednesday 3rd January 2018

Bill was a lifelong Rover who joined the club from West Grammar where he had played for England Schoolboys. Whilst at University he played for British Universities and then went on to have a fine career in rugby. Bill captained Rovers, played for Durham County some 40 times, was in the North of England squad, represented North East Counties and was on the substitutes bench for an England trial. An athletic back five player Bill will be remembered for the famous 'Slagger' penalty move of the 70s and 80s where he took the ball behind dummy forwards. At pace and at 6' 4" and 17 stone few were able to stop him. As he got older Bill played down the teams passing on his expertise and experience to a new generation of Rovers who saw him as an ideal role model and gaining silverware for both Shad's Marauders and the regular 4th XV.

In his working life Bill was a teacher at Blackhall and Head of Year at Hurworth and he inspired many pupils and brought on the careers of many rugby players. Several of whom ended up at Rovers when Bill was at Blackhall.

After he finished playing Bill remained deeply involved with the club serving on the committee in various roles such as Fixture Secretary and latterly chairman. It is for his work on the ground that Bill will be remembered by many. Together with brothers Jeff and Tony, and his father in law, they and others tidied, cleaned and painted anything that didn't move. And some things that did.

Our sincere condolences go to Bill's wife Jan, daughter Helen, son Michael, grandson James and all the rest of the family.

Details of the funeral will be posted when known

RIP Billy