The RFU has paid tribute to John Vincent (J V) Smith the oldest former England player and oldest former RFU President who has died at the age of 95.
He played four times on the wing for England in the 1950 Five Nations and scored tries against Wales and France and two against Scotland.
Said RFU President Jeff Blackett: “As well as being a proud life member of Stroud, JV was very proud of his long association with Rosslyn Park and of his Cambridge University Blue. An outstanding sportsman, the pinnacle of his rugby playing career was being selected to represent his country and he went on to serve the game for many years, including as RFU President. He will be very much missed by the game he loved.”
A fine athlete, JV ran against Olympian McDonald Bailey twice in 1947 and beat him both times. Breaking his back in a parachuting accident during his National Service in 1948 put him out of that year’s Olympics.
During the Covid lockdown he had a Zoom call with England captain Owen Farrell, both very much enjoying their chat.
