Weston-super-Mare Rugby Club is saddened to hear of the passing this morning (December 19, 2025) of former scrum half John Bawden, who was captain from 1971 to 1973. In his third season as captain, the 1stXV recorded 30 wins – a post-war record.
He made 261 appearances for the Weston 1stXV between 1969 and 1978, scoring eight tries and kicking five drop goals and was named Clubman of the Year for the 1973/74 season.
John became the club coach in 1978, played for Somerset, coached Somerset Colts and served on the Weston’s committee during the centenary season.
Away from rugby, John was Head Gardener at Blagdon’s Coombe Lodge, a former chairman and President of the National Chrysanthemum Society (NCS). He led a team of NCS members to win 10 gold medals at the Chelsea Flower Show.
John had been in a nursing home and had been suffering from poor health for some time.
There will be a minute's silence, signalled by the referee's whistle, before the Weston 1stXVs match against Cullompton.
Our condolences to Sue and the rest of the family.
RIP Johnny Bawden
John Bawden being presented with a portrait of himself on his birthday by Andy Carveth.at Coombe Lodge
A painting by local full-time professional painter Martin Benthem of Johnnie tending his beloved chrysanthemums
John here mixing it with Bristol's Alan Pearn. Dave Reardon and Rollitt look on.
Weston-super-Mare against a star-studded Gloucester from September 1975
