We are sad to report that Alan Brand passed away earlier this month. He died peacefully in his sleep on Friday 4th July following a downturn in his health 2 weeks before.

Alan studied at Wimbledon College from 1949 until he completed his A levels in 1956 at which point he commenced on his legal career.

He set up his own firm of Solicitors, Brand and Co, in Victoria house in North Cheam in the mid 1960’s with several Old Wimbledonians as partners and staff at one point or another. In 1990 be bought his own offices, still in North Cheam in Nonsuch House.

Steve Reynolds was one of the OWs who were given a start by Alan. 

Steve’s very first job interview took place at the Boxing Day game, after a tip-off from David Laundy. A 20-year-old Steve was told, “Go and see Alan about a job.” So, pint in hand, he approached Alan who didn’t know much about it but said, “Come in on Monday.” 

That Monday turned out to be New Year’s Day. Steve showed up, Alan welcomed him in, and just like that, he started. Legal jobs in those days didn’t pay much, but it was Steve’s first step on the ladder, a journey that would eventually take him all the way to the bench via the bar.

He was a devoted member of the Old Wimbledonians, playing in the 1st and 2nd team until the age of 35. A former team mate still tells the story of Alan playing No. 8 for the OWA against Old Freemen’s when he scored the only drop goal of his career. A moment of unexpected glory that’s still remembered to this day.

His commitment to the club continued as a non playing member, regularly supporting the team from the touch line and attending VP lunches and functions. This continued until just a few years ago when he was unable to make the trek through the mud to the 1st team pitch.

Alan's funeral is on Thursday 31st July in Cranleigh at Jesus Christ the Redeemer of Mankind at 11:45 am followed by a crematorium service and celebration of life event at Cranleigh Golf and Country Club. 

His son Graeme says all are welcome to come to any or all of the parts of the day, but an idea of numbers would be appreciated for catering purposes.

There will be a live stream available too with details nearer the time. 

May he rest in peace.

OWA Big Prize Club

HAVE SOME FUN AND SUPPORT THE OWs, WARRIORS AND CRICKET COLTS

The OW Big Prize Club, a registered lottery, has six annual draws. The first prize in each draw is £1000 and there are three lesser prizes. 

50% of BPC subscriptions is distributed as prizes and the remaining 50% supports the facilities for the OWs, the cricket colts and the rugby warriors.

Total prizes distributed in 2018 were c. £ 7600. Annual prize money increases with increased numbers of subscribers (the annual number of draws has recently been increased from 5 to 6 per year). 

New subscribers are very welcome. Anyone can join and you can have as many "tickets" as you wish for yourself, your children or grandchildren. The BPC subscription is £10 pcm. 

If you would like others to join the BPC please email owabigprize@gmail.com.

A big thank you to all that give their support via the BPC and good luck in future draws.

Best Regards.

Dave Doran