A DEDICATED member of Winchester Rugby Club has been honoured with a new lasting legacy.

Geoff Toogood became involved with the organisation 40 years ago and throughout his time took on many roles from touch judge, to coach, fixture secretary for 20 years and was made a life vice president.

When Geoff died in March last year the club set about finding a way to honour the 84-year-old and his commitment over many decades.

And last month the officials’ room at the North Walls Park ground, off Nuns Road, was unveiled with the help of his widow Jean following a complete refurbishment.

Chairman Steve Barrow said: “Geoff was a complete stalwart and a true gentleman. When he passed away his family and older members of the club thought that would be a nice area to dedicate to Geoff.

“He was quite passionate that that area should be made better, he was always critical about the facility. In the old days you only used to get one referee, but when more games started to be played it became a bit of a squeeze.”

But the revamp is not only to honour Geoff, who Steve said turned up week in week out for 20 years to be a touch judge, but for those officials and referees who support the many games the club hosts.

He added: “Winchester Rugby Club acknowledges the dedication and professionalism of the officials and accessors who turn up week on week to support our senior, ladies and junior fixtures. The refurbishment is by way of a thank you to them and will provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for their visits to Nuns Road.”

A plaque was donated by Geoff’s family with his information engraved on to be hung in the room.

To help overall the room funding and labour was donated by the Hampshire Referee Society, which the club say they are grateful for.