It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Paul Lloyd — known affectionately to all as Jake
A much-loved character and cherished member of the Dings Crusaders RFC family, Jake’s loss will be felt by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Jake was born in 1951 in Horfield, Bristol, one of nine siblings. The nickname “Jake” came from his childhood love of the 1950s radio show Jacob of Armitage. So taken was he with the character that his brothers began calling him Jake — a name that stayed with him for life.
Jake joined Dings Crusaders RFC in 1968 at just 16 years old, playing four games in his debut season. He quickly mastered the dark arts of front-row play — no small feat in those days — and by the following season had played 25 games, including nine for the 1st XV. Between 1969 and 1976, Jake made 205 appearances for the club, most of them in the 1st XV.

From 1977 to 1984, his playing time was limited due to work commitments at Rolls Royce, but he still managed 31 games during that period. His return in 1982 marked a resurgence in form, and he continued to play at a high level, including appearances for Bristol Rugby Club where he held an unbeaten record in the first team.
I had the privilege of playing alongside Jake from 1982 until his retirement from 1st XV rugby in 1992. Over an incredible 28 seasons at Dings, Jake played a total of 443 games — 315 of them for the 1st XV.

He was a natural rugby player: strong on either side of the scrum, with ball-handling skills that were rare among props of that era. I remember watching him train at Lockleaze on Tuesday nights, running hard before stripping down to reveal his trademark black bin bag — his unique method of shedding a few pounds after travelling the world with Rolls Royce.
In Jakes latter years he took on a coaching role of the then Junior side His son was playing in and took them to a Gloucester County Final played at the Memorial Ground.

The funeral service for Paul “Jake” Lloyd will take place on Thursday, 2nd October 2025 at 12:45pm at Canford Crematorium Chapel, followed by a private family burial.
Following the service, all are warmly invited to join the family at The Dings to celebrate Jake’s life.
A memorial page has also been set up: https://paul-lloyd-1951-2025.muchloved.com

Steve LLoyd, Dings Crusaders Chairman