A FORMER Crediton Rugby Club player will be remembered in Crediton on Friday, April 11.

It was on that day in 1950 that a Crediton family and Crediton RFC suffered a sad loss with the death of Charlie Haydon.

Mr Charlie Haydon and details of his military service.
Mr Charlie Haydon and details of his military service. (Derek Haydon)

The medals received by Mr Charlie Haydon.
The medals received by Mr Charlie Haydon. (Derek Haydon)

Charlie (33), was, at the time of his death, Crediton RFC Secretary.

In 1947 he was a member of the side which won the Devon Junior Cup.

His death resulted from a head injury sustained while playing for this team against Exeter A on March 25, 1950, and this injury was further aggravated when he played against Coombe Down two weeks later.

He collapsed on the Rec, and died the day after in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital.

The rugby club fullback left his wife Molly with three young children, Pauline, John and Derek.

Charlie Haydon, seated fourth left, second row from the front, with his Army regiment.
Charlie Haydon, seated fourth left, second row from the front, with his Army regiment. (Derek Haydon)

John was better known in Crediton as “Charlie” and was a former Mayor of Crediton.

He kept up the family association with the Club and was a regular supporter at home games.

Paul Harris, of Crediton Rugby Club, said previously: “Charlie senior will be remembered as a brave and competent full-back.”

He added that his contemporaries at the time included Douglas Penny, Ted Powlesland, Donald Trick, Ron Turner, Len Body, Jack Crooke, Fred Tuckett, Albert Labbett, Den Heard and many others.

Charlie Haydon.
Charlie Haydon. (Derek Haydon)

Charlie senior’s funeral service was held at Crediton Parish Church, followed by interment at Crediton Cemetery.

With the 165th Battery Light Anti-Aircraft during the Second World War, Mr Haydon saw service in France, Norway and Burma, and reached the rank of Sergeant.

There were so many flowers at Charlie Haydon’s funeral that a structure was built to display them at Crediton Cemetery.
There were so many flowers at Charlie Haydon’s funeral that a structure was built to display them at Crediton Cemetery. (Derek Haydon)

Before and after the war, Mr Haydon was employed by Messrs Willey and Co, Exeter.

Exeter City Coroner recorded a verdict of “Death by Misadventure” on Mr Haydon.

Derek Haydon explained that he considered it important to remember his father on the 75th anniversary of his passing.

He added: “Crediton came to a standstill on the day of his funeral.

“I was just four at the time.

“My family was grateful to the people of Crediton and further afield who donated to a Trust Fund.”