Everyone at Bournville is deeply saddened to hear of the death of Matt Gallagher after a courageous battle with Motor Neurone Disease.
Matt played for Birmingham & Solihull, Nottingham and Coventry and county rugby for Warwickshire in a distinguished career before he retired in 2003.
He was diagnosed with MND in October 2023 and then dedicated himself to the Foundation set up in his name to help fund research into a cure for this debilitating and life-shortening disease.
Matt was also coach of Solihull School and in that capacity he was a visitor to Avery Fields for the annual fixture against King Edward’s Birmingham.
“Matt was one of those blokes who everyone liked,” said Bournville Managing Director Phil Maynard.
“I always enjoyed catching up with him and having a laugh and a beer with him.
“He played some good rugby along the way and was held in high regard by his team-mates at the various clubs he played for.
“That was evident from the support Matt was given by the Midlands rugby community when his diagnosis was known and by the money that has been raised by his Foundation.
“He met his disease with stoic resolve which is a measure of the man.
“He will be missed by all the people that knew him and I and everyone at Bournville extend our condolences to Matt’s family and many friends at this very sad time.”
