Newcastle Falcons are saddened to learn of the death of David Campbell at the age of 90.

The Scotsman was a second-row forward who captained Gosforth during the 1960s and was instrumental in making the club a major force on the national stage.

Subsequent to his playing career Campbell was equally influential, serving as chairman of rugby and negotiating the successful sale of the club to Newcastle United.

That move alone helped place the club at the forefront of rugby union’s professional revolution.

The re-branded Falcons earned promotion into the top flight and became the only team to win the Premiership title at the first attempt – a record which proudly stands some 25 years later.

David is survived by his wife Caroline and his two sons, Robert and Andrew, who both live in Scotland.

Everybody associated with Newcastle Falcons would like to pass on our condolences to David’s friends and family at this difficult time.

Rest in peace.