"It is with great sadness that I share the passing of John Mackay at 73. John died yesterday on the way home from Rochford after watching our 1st XV win a brilliant game. I shook his hand, said goodbye, and we looked forward to the next time we’d watch the club we love. It’s hard to comprehend that this will never happen again.

John’s contribution to rugby was immense. He held numerous roles within @ecrurugby and @norfolkrfu and was a leading administrator in our region. But it is his love and dedication to Wymondham that I want to celebrate. He worked closely with Martin Crook, helping one of our Colts teams win the EC Cup. He was a successful Chair and most recently Club President, with his final year being the most successful in our history.

Even after stepping down, he continued to organise and run WASTERS—the Wymondham Away Supporters Travel Entertainment and Recreation Society. Whenever he explained the acronym, it was met with laughter. John was one of the kindest, most loyal people I knew. I can be awkward and difficult, but he was always unconditionally supportive.

Just this week, he messaged me to congratulate the Club on its success both on and off the field. It is a cruel irony that, after one of our best Saturdays with all senior men’s teams winning, we mourn one of the Club’s greats. “Club legend” is a phrase used often, but no one deserves it more than John.

I have been inundated with messages from players, clubs, and friends struggling to process this loss. John was also a devoted family man, leaving behind Annette, his wife of 40 years, and sons David, Rob, and Andy. We can only imagine their pain at this time.

Please join me in sending condolences to his family. May they find strength in the love and admiration we all have for John."

Rest in peace, John. You will never be forgotten. ⚫️