It is with deep sadness that Harrogate Rugby Union Football Club acknowledges the passing of Peter John Squires, a true sporting great who represented both our club and the wider rugby and cricket community with distinction. Peter passed away on 21 January 2026, at the age of 74.

Born in Ripon in 1951, Peter was an exceptional dual sport athlete who excelled at both rugby union and cricket from an early age. After captaining his school rugby team, he went on to play for Ripon and Harrogate RUFC, where his speed, skill and character quickly marked him out as an extraordinary talent.

Peter’s rugby prowess saw him rise to the highest levels of the sport. A dynamic and elusive winger, he earned 29 caps for England in the 1970s, scoring six tries and appearing on the international stage in some of the most memorable matches of the era. He was part of the victorious England side that beat Australia 23 - 6 at Twickenham in 1976 and was selected as one of only five Englishmen for the 1977 British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand, an honour that remains one of the pinnacles of rugby achievement.

While his international career was trimmed by injury, Peter continued to be a force in rugby long after. He played for Ripon into his 40s and remained involved in the local game with great passion, inspiring teammates and opponents alike with his unwavering commitment and infectious love for the sport.

Off the pitch, Peter was known for his humility, his warmth, and his genuine nature, qualities remembered fondly by all who knew him. At a time when rugby was still amateur, he balanced his sporting life with a career as a games teacher at Harrogate Grammar School, where he nurtured countless young athletes across rugby, cricket, hockey and athletics.

Tributes from across the rugby and local community reflect the high regard in which he was held. Harrogate RUFC’s Commercial Chair, Mike Cowling a former teammate described Peter as “one of the greatest players to ever wear our colours,” noting his remarkable speed, finishing ability and, most of all, his modest, generous personality.

As a mark of respect, Harrogate RUFC will hold a minute’s silence before this weekend’s home fixture against Cleckheaton, allowing players, officials and supporters to remember Peter and reflect on his outstanding contribution to the club and the game.

Peter’s legacy at Harrogate RUFC, and in the broader sporting world, is one of excellence, dedication and integrity. He embodied the spirit of rugby both on and off the field, and his passing is a profound loss to all who had the privilege of knowing him or seeing him play.

The thoughts of everyone at Harrogate RUFC are with Peter’s family and friends at this difficult time. His contribution to our game and to our club will never be forgotten.

Rest in peace, Peter Squires - Lion, England international, clubman, and true gentleman of the game.