BETTESHANGER Rugby Club have lost one of their most treasured members with the death of Charlie Burmister.

Mr Burmister was a founder member of the reformed Betteshanger RC in 1948, playing as a second row forward.

After retiring as a player he took an active role in the club’s administration, first on the committee and then as club chairman.

He occupied the position for over 30 years, making him the club’s longest serving chairman, before ill-health in recent years prevented him from taking an active interest in the club.

Club president Gerald Griffiths said: “Charlie’s contribution will not be forgotten and he will be sadly missed.”

Mr Burmister was born in Clapham and came to Deal at the end of the Second World War.