Bank Quay and Rylands rugby player Jamie Evans dies aged 37

Jamie Evans, from Orford, died suddenly on Thursday, January 16.

The dad-of-two gave years of service to Bank Quay Bulls as a player and a youth team coach, and also enjoyed a spell with Rylands Sharks.

Bank Quay chairman Kelly Cragg said: “Jamie was well known within the Bank Quay family and all the lads are deeply upset over his passing.

“He was known as Bambi, because he always looked like he was going to fall over when he was running.

“The club is deeply saddened, we’re all gutted.”

Jamie, the son of former Salford Red Devils star Tex Evans, played for Bank Quay masters as recently as last year and also coached the club’s now u14s and u15s side to their first final.

Jamie in action for Bank Quay Bulls in 2008

He was ‘loved by all’ of his young players, and a minutes silence was held in his memory at Bank Quay u14s' game at the weekend.

Bank Quay and Rylands masters will now face off in a masters game in support of Jamie’s family.

The clubs are hoping to raise £1,000 to go towards the cost of the prop’s funeral.

Kelly added: “Everybody comes together at a sad time like this, and we’ve had 50 people putting their hands up wanting to play for Jamie.

“The club would like to raise £1,000 for the family.

“Funerals cost a fortune, so every little helps.

“Whatever we do, we’ll do it together with Rylands.”

The memorial fundraising match will take place at Monks Sports and Social Club in Woolston at 2pm this Sunday, February 2.

Entrance is £1, with an auction and raffle also being held on the day.

Further events in support of Jamie’s family are planned, including a race night at the King's Head pub in the town centre at 7.30pm on Saturday, February 15.

In a statement, Bank Quay Bulls said: “It’s with a heavy heart we bring you sad news of the passing of Jamie Evans.

“Jamie was a huge part of Bank Quay Bulls.

“He had a smile for everyone and a nickname for most.”

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