It is with much regret that we announce the death of former Taunton Rugby Club Player and Coach, John (JC) Cooling, our condolences go out to Gill and family at this very sad time

It is with much regret that we announce the death of former Taunton Rugby Club Player and Coach, John (JC)Cooling, our condolences go out to Gill and family at this very sad time

John made his senior debut for the club’s B team in September 1966 at the age of 14, and he would eventually appear in a 1st XV shirt on more than 150 occasions, being forced to retire prematurely in 1976 due to a recurring shoulder injury.

Upon retiring, JC took up coaching at Taunton Rugby, which complemented his daytime role as a Sports master at Heathfield School. Success under him came in the 1985/86 season when Taunton won the County Cup for the very first time in its 110 years, coupled with the prestigious Bass Merit Table.

The funeral will take place at Taunton Deane Crematorium on Wednesday 26th February  1 p.m.