He was educated at Rutlish Grammar School and Harlequins first met him when he played for the Club against Rosslyn Park in April 1943. At that time he was serving in the Fleet Air Arm.

His rugby career with the Quins was very distinguished. To show his versatility he was able to play both as Prop and in the Back Row. His last game was against Newport at Rodney Parade in December 1961. During this period he played at least 161 times for the 1st XV, scoring 43 points (13 tries, 2 conversions), including 87 appearances at the RFU - the Club's adopted ground. He was Club Captain from 1952 to 1954.

His rugby achievements included:

1945-1952: Played for Surrey County RFU
1950-1952: Captain of Surrey County RFU
1956: Toured with Harlequins to Romania (First club to do so)
1966: Managed Harlequins tour to South Africa
1968: Appointed Manager of British Lions tour to South Africa (Where they became known as the 'Wreckers')
1971-1973: President of Surrey County Rugby Football Union
n/k: President of London Rugby Football Union
1981-1982: President of Rugby Football Union
1990-2001: President of Harlequin Football Club

As ML 'Micky' Grant (Harlequin) wrote of David in the 1950's -

"David Kenneth Brooks has packed more into his Rugby life than most of us could if we played until we were ninety."

Rugby has just lost an ambassador of this great union game, whilst everyone at Harlequins will miss a very dedicated, loveable and gentle man who, until ill health intervened, was always ready to listen to others and give advice when needed. He became a legend of our time.

Harlequins offer their sincere condolences to Alan, Trish, Sue, Philip and their families.

The funeral will be at 2.00pm on Friday, 11th January 2002 in Christ Church, Copse Hill, Wimbledon, followed by a private cremation. Family flowers only but donations, if desired, to S.P.I.R.E, c/o Frederick W Paine, 6 Coombe Lane, Raynes Park, London, SW20 8ND.

bl/nc