Cornwall RFU regret to announce the death of Dick Honeywell (pictured above as captain of Camborne) aged 99 years and believed to have been the oldest former Cornwall player at the time of his death.
Born in Mevagissey, he served in the RAF during World War II, before working for ESSO for his working life. He continued to have a lifetime interest in flying.
Before playing for Cornwall, he was capped by Devon when playing for Paignton in 1948.
Dick played No.8 or in the second row and at 6′ 3” was a handful to deal with. He joined Bristol in 1950 and made his Cornwall debut that same year against British Police at the Mennaye Field, a game Cornwall won 22-6.
He made his County Championship debut for Cornwall in the home game against Somerset at Camborne, which Cornwall lost 9-20. He kept his place in the side for the remainder of that season. In all Dick played 13 times for Cornwall. It also led to him being invited to the first England trial that season, he impressed and was invited for the second trial. Sadly, injury precluded his participation and hopes of an England cap.
Upon returning to Cornwall, Dick played for Camborne and was their captain during the 1953-54 season.
The President of Cornwall RFU, John Sumnall, along with the Officers of the CRFU wish to express their sincerest condolences to Dick’s family and friends at this time.
