Ex-England skipper David Perry dies aged 79

by The TRU Team Wednesday 12 April 2017

Former England captain David Perry has died at the age of 79

©PA

Bedford Blues Rugby Club have confirmed that former England skipper David Perry has died at the age of 79.

Perry played for England 15 times between 1963 and 1966 and has captained them in four matches during the 1965 Five Nations Championship.

Perry, who played at lock or number eight during his career joined Bedford in 1962 and racked up over 100 appearances amassing 115 points.

Former RFU president Malcolm Phillips paid tribute to Perry in the club's official website.

"David was just starting his England career as I was finishing mine.

"We were fortunate to go on the very first England overseas rugby tour in 1963 to New Zealand. We played three Test matches in 10 days and lost them all.

"We had some memorable moments - such as playing Australia on the return journey at the Sydney Cricket Ground during a tropical storm in four inches of standing water. The score was irrelevant."