The club recently received this message following the death of former club captain Eddie Yates, from a fellow player Brian Astbury. It is sad that the stories about so many great characters and players are being lost, and extremely important that the club understands its heritage and appreciates the work undertaken by its founders. So accordingly, below is the letter for you to enjoy.

I was sorry to read of Eddie Yates death, I had the privilege to play for the Old Sandbachians 1st XV throughout the period of Eddie's captaincy.
He was a truly amazing player; his speed over 15 yards was electric and this combined with his ability to sidestep off either foot made him almost impossible to mark. He was also very adept at kicking, mainly attacking kicks, grubers or simple chips over the opposition defence.
I was the youngest member of the team and Eddie made sure I was well looked after by the rest of the team. As well as an inspiration he was a mentor and guide.
I well remember the "friendly" pre-season matches versus Wilmslow. It said much for the esteem that all players held Eddie in, that he got David Wrench (the then England Prop) to play in one of these matches. David was made captain for the night and his pre match exhortation was brief. "I only play Rugby for enjoyment, and I only enjoy winning" Sadly we only drew this match.
Eddie would frequently call in our shop in the high street to let my mother know I was needed for the match on Saturday. Mother would ring me. As I was at college in Loughborough playing involved me cycling from Loughborough to Sandbach on the Friday night Play on Saturday and cycle back to Loughborough on Sunday. It says much for Eddie that it never crossed my mind to not play when asked.
Lastly Eddie was a gentleman, a sportsman and a shining example of all that was good about rugby football. I treasure my memories of him, and I know he will be missed by many.