Phil was one of the many colourful Welshmen at the clubhouse and was a big friend of Maurice Jones who passed away recently also. My favourite memory of Phil is his time spent tirelessly teaching my son and team mates on Sunday mornings, to jump in the lineout and win the ball. So much fun!

Jeremy, Phil’s son has kindly put together some memories of Phil and his relationship with Horsham RFC.

“Phil was a proud Welshman born in Cardiff, and after getting a taste of Rugby in high school, played for Cardiff High School Old Boys (now Cardiff Quins) for a number of years before moving in 1969 to South Manchester playing for Old Salians RFC. His job in the industrial steel industry of the north was short lived and in 1971 he moved to Horsham and agreed to retire from rugby aged 37. But after seeing a game being played in the park, he thought "one more season" and joined Horsham the year they moved to the Coolhurst ground.

He played for the Lions in his 40's, toured Saint Maixent between 1974-82 retaining lifelong friendships with the locals and captaining the touring side in 1977. Phil continued playing till his 50's (for the over 35's!) before turning to coaching and helping start the M&J section 48 years ago, with 30 boys turning up for the first training session.

He coached the U16's with fellow Welshman Maurice Jones and moved onto playing socially for Horsham RUFC Golf Society, enjoying plenty of banter and a few beers with his friends. Being on the door of the club discos back in the day kept him on his toes, and after playing he was actively involved in various committees helping develop the club over the years to fund and build the amazing facilities we enjoy today.

In his latter years he enjoyed watching his grandson (Matt) play at Horsham from age 6 - 18, before leaving for University, culminating in presenting the Colts Sussex Premiership Trophy at their end of season awards in 2017.

He loved this club - it was his life and he will be missed by many.”

Jeremy Allen

Funeral Details - All Welcome.
Thursday 15 May 2025 at 3.30pm
Worthing Crematorium, Muntham Chapel , Horsham Rd, Findon, Worthing BN14 0RG
No flowers thank you - please make a donation to a charity of your choice in Phil Allen's name.
Followed by a reception and refreshments at: Findon Manor Hotel, High Street, Findon, Findon BN14 0TA.

We will be celebrating Phil's life and time at Horsham RUFC on Saturday 17th May during the afternoon between 16:30 and 19:30 in the players bar.
Please pop along so Phil can buy you a drink while you chat with fellow friends and players.