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There are many things that could be said about Paul, and indeed his wife Hilary, but trying to summarise what he has given to the game of Rugby in Devon is difficult.  When I think of Paul there are 4 key words that I believe best describe what he has given us over so many years: 

The first is knowledge. Paul has an almost encyclopaedic knowledge of rugby which is beyond the capability of many of us. Paul can recall the key issues and challenges that have been faced before and the decisions that were made, and relay those to us in the most informed way.  He is unbiased and not bound by what has gone before and is always open to change. The experience he has brought us is built on his knowledge, and it is that that has made him so measured in what he does and says. I, and the rest of the Devon Committee, have relied on that knowledge as a guide to what we do, and his guidance and counsel has been of great value to all of us. 

The second word is Diligence. Paul is meticulous in his approach to everything he does. This diligence has been seen at every committee meeting, every AGM, and at every event we have attended. Whether it be writing a speech, administering GMS, preparing for a meeting, or researching an issue, he is always incredibly well prepared. Paul is totally reliable and dependable, and this is underpinned by his diligence in all that he does, whether that be at Crediton or for Devon, it will truly be missed. 

The third word is commitment. Paul has shown unwavering and total commitment to both Devon and Crediton. He attends every meeting and every event. The only time you will not see Paul is when he is double booked and cannot attend two or more events at the same time. I am sure that he tries to. He is committed to every player, every supporter, every volunteer and every club. So whether it be presenting a trophy at an Age Grade or Devon Cup Final, supporting a county side and being our representative, or celebrating our volunteers, Paul is always there. He does so without complaint or hesitation, and that is made possible by the final word I would use. 

The final word is love. Above all it is clear that what drives Paul, what underpins everything he does, is his love for the game. You can feel it every time you meet him and in every hand shake. For Paul rugby is a passion and, whether in victory or defeat, he shares a smile and a sense of cheer that clearly demonstrates his love for the game and everything it brings.   

Paul has been an exceptional ambassador for rugby and an exemplary representative of both Crediton and Devon. He has been there to support us all and to help us to do our best for the game. He has set the standard and is a great example to us all. He will be missed as President, but I have no doubt that he will continue to support us as best as he can within our new Presidential team. I thank Paul and Hilary for everything they have done, and wish them both all the best for the future…

A well deserved testimonial, by Simon Fuller (Chair, Devon RFU)