The obituary notice of Ian Martin (Former Rugby Union and Welsh International) BUCKETT

As a lifelong Swansea RFC supporter I would like to express my deepest sympathies to all family and friends.
It was quite a shock to hear one of our finest has passed at such a young age.
He was part of a Swansea team that brought so much joy and entertainment to all of us in that late 80's/early 90's era where the "All Whites"were formidable.
Ian played his part and was always eye catching with his skills.
Many of us in the stands at St.Helen's thought he wouldn't have looked out of place in the back row - which is a huge compliment when you consider the quality we had.
Happy memories of patting him on the back after he'd done well and of him smiling to fans before he went back to the changing rooms.
RIP Ian - a legend.

I met Ian when he came to Oxford in 1992, the first time when he was charging at me off the back of a line out in an early season training run. Fortunately it was a non-contact session. It was always reassuring to have him on your side in a match.
Off the pitch, Ian had a gentle and modest nature; an original thinker who was happy discussing any topic under the sun.
Condolences to his family and friends - we will be missed.

I had the privilege to get to know Ian at Oxford in 1992 and through the Welsh rugby system playing against France and England students together. A strong player, gifted Captain and a true academic achieving distinction in his D Phil at the best university in the UK!

We joked and laughed whilst touring Japan, Hong Kong, South Africa and France together The voice of reason and wisdom A true gentleman

RIP Ian

I was very sad to hear of Ian's passing.
I first met Ian when he came up to Oxford University and was fortunate to play with him during the 1992/93 season and tour with him to Hong Kong & Japan in 1992 and South Africa in 1993. 'Bucko' was both a formidable presence on the field and a considered and entertaining presence off it. It was always a pleasure (mixed with an awareness that I would need to have my wits about me) to pull up a chair with Ian after a game and discuss the events of that day, the last decade or the last century - I never quite knew the ground over which a conversation with Ian could range, but it was always thought-provoking and never dull. That theme continued during the various reunions we attended and I am sorry I did not see more of him than I did. I will miss those conversations Bucko. My sincere condolences to Ian's friends and family at this sad and difficult time.

I met Ian properly on the Oxbridge rugby tour to South Africa in 1993. I kept in touch with him for many years after that as our paths met due to rugby, law and/or living in Yorkshire. He was a brilliant rugby player, fiercely loyal, and he had a sharp, enquiring mind. But above all he was his own man, a true independent thinker who would be very happy zagging when everyone else zigged. I was very sad to hear that Ian had died. I hope his family gets through this tough time. Best wishes to all.

Max Duthie