Alan
Brinn

Born in Ystrad, Wales, marking the beginning of his journey.

Began his senior rugby career playing for Hereford RFC. Even after joining Gloucester, he maintained a lifelong link to Hereford, frequently appearing in their annual Peter Robbins social games.

Made his Gloucester 1st XV debut against Lydney.

Served as a permanent fixture in the second row for 17 consecutive seasons. While primarily a lock, he famously showed his versatility by playing in the back row and even stepping in as a prop on one occasion.

Featured in the Hereford team for the Robbins game, cementing his reputation as a "gentle giant" of the local game.

Scored one of the most famous tries in "Shed" history against Pontypool. After a kickoff, he capitalized on a hesitation by the defense to dive over the line to "wild acclaim."

Played for Western Counties against the South African Springboks.

Represented Western Counties against the Fijians.

Earned 51 caps for Gloucestershire, appearing in six successive County Championship finals during the county's dominant era.

Played a pivotal role in the Gloucester team that defeated Moseley (17–6) to win the inaugural RFU Knockout Cup at Twickenham.

Faced the New Zealand All Blacks with Western Counties.

Earned three senior England caps during the Five Nations Championship, making his international debut against Wales.

Played for the South & South-West against Australia.

Stepped down from 1st XV duties to captain the Gloucester United (the second team), mentoring the next generation of players.

Made his final 1st XV appearance as a replacement against Plymouth Albion.

Retired with 574 appearances, a club record that is widely considered "unbreakable" in the modern era of limited playing schedules.

Served the club in various administrative capacities, including Team Secretary and Team Manager.

For decades, he ran a well-known sports outfitting shop on Eastgate Street, which served as a hub for local athletes and rugby fans in Gloucester.

Appointed as an associate selector for the England national team, utilizing his vast experience to scout talent.

Was a founder member of this social rugby team, which brought together players from Gloucester and Hereford for high-standard Sunday matches.

Served as Chairman of Gloucester RFC. He was the figurehead during the club's most turbulent period—the transition from amateurism to the professional era in 1995.

Officially resigned as a Director of the club just as the professional structure was fully implemented and eventually taken over by Tom Walkinshaw in 1997.

Passed away at the age of 81. He remained a dedicated season ticket holder and a familiar face at Kingsholm until his final days.