It is with great sadness that Northampton Saints announces the passing of former player and Club President, Peter Haddon.
The former front-row forward passed away last week aged 84, having featured over 100 times for Saints after making his Club debut back in 1951.
Haddon also turned out for Leicester Tigers and Harlequins during his playing days, but played an even more crucial role in the history of Northampton Saints and Franklin’s Gardens after his retirement.
He went on to coach at the Club, helping many players adapt to the demands of the new professional age around the turn of the century – including the likes of future World Cup winners Steve Thompson, Ben Cohen and Matt Dawson.
Haddon took on the role of Saints President during the 2002/03 season, leading the Club through that campaign, before leaving to focus his attention on his business.
Peter Haddon & Partners Architects still operate today, and Haddon himself had a pivotal role in creating the Franklin’s Gardens that Saints supporters know and love.
His firm designed and created the Church’s, Carlsberg and South Stands which make up Northampton’s stadium today – as well as the old Sturtridge Pavilion before it was replaced by the Barwell Stand.
Former Saint Vacey Pocklington, who wore Black, Green and Gold between 1988 and 1991, said: “Peter always helped me with my front row trade when I was at the Gardens in the late 80s and early 90s! A true gentleman!”
Frank Packman, another former Saint, added: “I’m very sorry to hear this sad news, Peter was a lovely man and helped me no end in my early days. My thoughts are with Peter’s family at this time.”
The Haddon family would like to invite any of Peter’s friends from his Club days to his funeral next month, which will be held at All Saints Church Northampton on Thursday 23rd August at 1.45pm.
