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Raymond Matthews
27th June 2007
A keen rugby supporter and a Vice President of the Penzance & Newlyn RFC, Raymond Matthews, has passed away this week, aged 86.
Ray, a single man, lived at Pendeen and was for many years manager of the Western National Bus Depot at Camborne. His involvement with the Pirates was considerable, especially in helping to organise social events. In the early 1960s he was Chairman of the Summer Activities Committee, and later a member of the club's Finance and Executive Committees. From 1977-81 he also held the important role of Fixture Secretary.
In retirement, besides still supporting rugby about the county, he also enjoyed watching St. Just play cricket, while he himself played bowls for Penzance. He had also been Chairman of the Mounts Bay Bowling Tournament.
Snooker was another game he enjoyed, playing at the Mounts Bay Club where he was President for a number of years.
In 2002 he had a rare honour bestowed upon him, that of an honorary citizen of Valletta, Ray having served in the convoy that brought relief to Malta in 1942 as part of 'Operation Pedestal'.
It was a rightfully proud moment for someone who exemplified the true meaning of the word 'service' throughout his life.
Ray's funeral is at Pendeen Church on Friday 6th July 10:30am
The gathering invited afterwards to the North Inn, Pendeen.
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