It is with great sadness that Northampton Saints announces the passing of former player Gerry Allen.
Allen made 24 appearances on the wing for the men in Black, Green and Gold between 1964 and 1970.
Throughout his six seasons at Franklin’s Gardens he played across the first team, Wanderers and Crusaders teams – and a quote in the Stamford Mercury in September 1968 showed that above all else, he was a loyal Club man; “Northampton is a great Club. I would rather play for their second or third team, than move to another Club.”
His debut was against Nottingham on September 16 1964, and he scored a hat-trick of tries. He also scored in his first season against Richmond, Bective Rangers and Dolphin. His highlight in his later years was scoring four tries again against Notts in the 1968/69 season, which prompted the headline ‘Auctioneer Gerry puts Notts under the hammer’ in the match report. This was reference to his life-long profession as a Charter Surveyor and the line always raised a smile from Gerry.
He also represented the East Midlands and Lincolnshire. After his Saints career, he moved to Kettering RFC where he played for a number of years.
Gerry was very proud to have played for Saints and remained a life-long supporter, watching many games from the stands. Gerry particularly loved the social side of rugby and made many friends during his playing career and then in his later years watching the game.
He leaves behind wife Elizabeth, sons John and Steve, daughters Georgina and Francesca, and many grandchildren – all very proud of his rugby career and all Saints supporters.
Gerry’s Thanksgiving Service is on Tuesday 22 June at 2.00pm at Barnwell Church.
