CREDITON Rugby Club has announced the sad news of the death of a former respected player and President.

The club said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news of the passing of Paul Harris.

“Paul first pulled on a black and amber shirt in the 1969/70 season and went on to make 151 appearances for the club.

Paul Harris, left, and Scott Baker, right during the recent visit of the Women’s Rugby World Cup to Crediton RFC. AQ 2380
Paul Harris, left, and Scott Baker, right during the visit of the Women’s Rugby World Cup to Crediton RFC in September. AQ 2380 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

“He was always the first to say he wasn’t the most naturally gifted of players, but what he gave to Crediton RFC off the field was immeasurable.

“From Match Secretary to Chairman and ultimately President, Paul dedicated decades of service to the club he loved.

“His influence reached far beyond Blagdon.

“Paul was a respected and committed member of the Devon RFU Committee, serving in numerous roles before becoming President of the Union from 2022 to 2025 - a position he fulfilled with pride, humility, and an unwavering belief in the importance of grassroots rugby.

Paul Harris, second left, and Bernie Blatchford, second right, were given outstanding service awardy by Crediton RFC in October 2020. AQ 9507

“Regardless of club colours, Paul championed the idea that every community club deserved a voice.

“Paul was black and amber through and through, a true CRFC legend, and one of the kindest and most genuine gentlemen you could ever hope to meet.

“His loss will be felt deeply across the rugby community in Devon and far beyond.

“Our thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences are with his family and friends at this incredibly sad time.

“RIP Bomber”

In November 2018, Paul was honoured at Twickenham for 50 years of service to his club.

Paul Harris from Crediton RFC, left, receiving the RFU President's Value the Volunteer Outstanding Contribution Award from England head coach Eddie Jones in November 2018. (England Rugby)

In October 2020 he was honoured by Crediton RFC for outstanding service to the club.

Paul was the club press officer, submitting many weekly reports to the Crediton Courier.

He was also a rugby historian and in 2003 wrote a book “Crediton Rugby – The first 125 years”.

He has also researched the history of other clubs and Devon RFU.

Crediton RFC First XV in 1997-98, the Runners-up in the Cornwall and Devon League, with Paul Harris, left.