Bournemouth Rugby is proud to celebrate one of our longest-serving and most cherished members, Mike Wilkes. Mike has been part of the club for over 40 years, leaving a lasting legacy both on and off the field.
As a skilled and dependable hooker, Mike was a cornerstone of the 1st team in the 1980s, known for his fairness, mobility, and team spirit. Off the pitch, his professionalism as a chartered surveyor was admired by all who worked with him. Mike’s straightforward, efficient, and kind nature has touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Mike will be joining us with his family and friends for the pre-match lunch at Chapel Gate ahead of our game against Tottonians. This occasion provides an opportunity for us to come together as a club to celebrate Mike’s incredible contributions and the friendships he has built over the years.
Former Chairman Michael Yeoman captured the essence of Mike perfectly in this tribute:
MIKE WILKES – 40 Years a Member
It was back in the 80s (seems like the stone age!) when Dave Richardson, a prop of great wisdom and playing ability, said to me: “Chairman, there’s a chap coming to Bournemouth who used to hook when I was playing for Worcester. He is a nice guy, and I think you’ll find he is very useful.”
Introduced to Mike for the first time, I quickly found every word that Dave said about him was true. After a game in the 2nd team, he quickly made it to hooking for the 1st team and was an automatic selection for a long time. Mike was a non-confrontational player, unusually for a hooker! No need to resort to trickery or illegal means to get results. He played hard but fair and was extremely mobile… a great man to have in your side.
In his profession as a chartered surveyor, he practised in Bournemouth, and his surveys and reports were highly sought after. Those who read his reports respected his judgement, and his survey work was always comprehensive and full of information. Quite simply, in work and on the rugby field, Mike was straightforward and efficient, easy company, one of the best, and as many of us here today will agree, someone we are all pleased to call a friend.
Michael Yeoman
Chairman 1988–1989
Mike, we want to take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude for all you have given to Bournemouth Rugby over the years. You have been an inspiration and a cornerstone of our club.
We send all our love and best wishes to you and your family. You are, and always will be, a treasured member of the Bournemouth Rugby family.
