Thomas Jackson a hero on and off rugby field

SCOTTISH rugby has lost one of its immediate post-war heroes with the passing of Thomas Jackson at his home in Buckinghamshire at the age of 88.

Brigadier Thomas Jackson played 12 times for Scotland between 1947 and 1949, making his debut against France at Stade Colombes in Paris on New Year's Day 1947. A winger, he played his club rugby for Cheltenham, London Scottish, The Army and Combined Services and prior to winning his first cap represented the Barbarians in 1945/46.

Born in Kent, Jackson gave distinguished military service in the Royal Signals and was honoured with an OBE and MBE as he rose to the rank of Brigadier. He played in the non-cap "Victory International" against England at Murrayfield where his "pace, physique and determination" were reported in a 27-0 success for Scotland, and it was also against England that his bravery came to the fore.

He scored two tries for Scotland, one against England at Twickenham in 1947, returning to the field when injured, and the other in a 9-8 win over France at Murrayfield the following year.

The SRU yesterday extended its sincere condolences to Mr Jackson's family and friends and stated that a thanksgiving service would be held next month.