On Wednesday we said a final goodbye to Dennis Carney. And what a turnout he had down at Lightcliffe Church and back here afterwards in the clubhouse.

As a final bid farewell, representatives from our former Veterans team had this to say....

Dennis Carney & The Veterans

In 1980 Denis was 4th team captain, the selection committee picked 4 teams only to be told by Dennis that he had another 15 players and had a fixture against Sheffield Tigers and that was beginning of The Veterans. Heady days when we could raise 5 at times 6 teams.

Dennis was responsible for more than 30 consecutive European vets tours. AAC Amsterdam were the 1st opponents and Denis organised transport, ship, hotel – everything.

Thanks to Dennis’ vision, the veterans became an important part of the club keeping players on the field into their 50s & a few even into their 60s and taking official duties in the club.

His millionaire plans were legendary, a favourite being his teaming up with a couple of demolition guys he met in a pub. Their first job being the removal of an end terrace house until Dennis received a phone call to say they had made a start but it was at the wrong end !

Dennis had a Ford Granada which he always drove at some speed and trips to away matches were not for the weak bladdered as he refused to stop on the return journeys.

Dennis was always great company and had a great sense of humour. At the bar a few years ago, he said ‘We used to stand here saying how well we’d played & what a great pint – now the discussion is how many times a night we get up for a pee !’

Thank you for everything Dennis, you will be sadly missed. RIP.