COVENTRY Rugby are mourning the loss of former president and vice captain Brian Holt who has died aged 78 following a lenghty illness.
The flanker played an important role in Coventry’s all-conquering side in the 1960s and 1970s while also twice winning the newly-launched RFU Challenge Cup.
Brian made his Cov debut in 1968 shortly after leaving King Henry VIII School.
He formed part of a quad of Coventry and England greats alongside David Duckham, Peter Preece and Peter Rossborough.
Brian scored 27 tries in 177 appearances for Coventry before retiring a decade later.
He rounded off his playing days with a season at Nuneaton and also represented Warwickshire on a regular basis who enjoyed success in the County Championship.
Brian’s former teammate and great friend, Simon Maisey said: “Brian was one of those back-row forwards who revelled in the physical side of the game.
“He would usually be the first to fall on a loose ball despite the on-rush of the opposing pack who often trampled anyone in their way.
“I once went on tour with him for Solihull RFC. In the first game he got severely concussed and refused to go off which was typical of him.
“He was part of a very strong Coventry pack in a team which many considered the best in England at the time.
“Brian went to Cambridge and was very intelligent.
“Getting an answer from him could sometimes be a slow process as he was very deliberate, but you knew it was worth waiting since when it eventually came it was always a well thought-out response.
“Brian took lessons to fly a helicopter, played golf at Coventry GC, was a great snow skier and an excellent tennis player.
“He was very kind and generous and a good friend who I will miss greatly.”
Following his retirement, Brian maintained his connection with the club as a supporter and sponsor and served a two-year term as club president in 2003 and 2004.
Brian leaves two daughters, two sons and four grandchildren in addition to brothers David, Peter and Bernard plus sister Mary.
His funeral details will follow.
