It’s often said that no one is bigger than a club, and that’s true. But some people become part of the fabric—woven into every matchday, every memory, every corner of the ground. John Raine was one of those people.

John’s connection to Clifton began on the pitch. He joined the club in the 1960s as a promising young prop and was soon playing in the 1st XV—earning his debut in a fierce clash against Bristol at the Memorial Ground. He relished every challenge, whether it was a hard-fought draw with Gloucester or a Boxing Day victory over Bath. One of his fondest memories was a narrow loss to Sale in the national John Player Cup—a sign of just how competitive Clifton were at the time, and how proud he was to be part of it.

He also embraced the spirit of touring rugby. John was on one of the club’s earliest overseas trips to the USA and later travelled with the renowned Clifton RATS XV—a touring side that combined the best of rugby with camaraderie and mischief, both of which suited him perfectly.

But it was off the pitch where John’s influence really blossomed. After hanging up his boots, he became Chairman, and then served an extraordinary 14-year term as President. He helped guide the club through pivotal moments: the establishment of the Mini and Junior sections, the growth of the women's and girls' game, and the club’s move to its current facilities at Cribbs Causeway. He later became a Trustee, ensuring Clifton’s future was protected just as carefully as its past was cherished.

He was at virtually every game, home and away, with his beloved partner Toni by his side. Together they clocked up the miles, always there, always cheering, always representing Clifton. John, resplendent in his lavender and black blazer, was a beacon—his pre-match comments a much-loved tradition. He spoke with warmth, wit and a wry smile: insightful, respectful of the opposition, and often hilarious. He kept the art of after-dinner speaking alive, and reminded us that sport should always be taken seriously—but never too seriously.

Cricket was another passion. On many summer days, John could be found at Lord’s in the Members’ enclosure, proudly sporting his egg-and-bacon MCC tie, soaking in the rhythms of a slower game, yet one he loved just as fiercely.

When Clifton celebrated its 150th anniversary, it was only right that John was President. His leadership, generosity, and sheer love for the club made him the perfect figurehead at such a landmark moment.

We’re all so thankful that John was able to attend our final two home matches of the 2024–25 season—witnessing the team take the lead at the top of the league and then hold on to clinch promotion to National League 1. He would have loved that. In many ways, it was the perfect send-off—a club he helped shape reaching new heights, cheered on by the man who’d given it so much.

John Raine is an indelible part of Clifton’s history. He will be remembered not only for what he did, but for who he was: kind, loyal, fiercely proud, deeply funny, and completely Clifton.

Rest easy, John. Lavender and black runs through us all—but it shone especially bright in you.

Words: Wyn Tingley
Photo: John White