Arthur Norman McClinton

Arthur Norman McClinton (16 August 1886 – 29 November 1929) was an Irish rugby union international who was part of the first official British Isles team that toured South Africa in 1910. He also played on 2 occasions for Ireland.

Early life Arthur Norman McClinton was born in Belfast, Ireland on 16 August 1886 He had at least four siblings: Dorothy Louise McClinton; Marie Rose McClinton; John Stuart McClinton and Fred Hurst McClinton.

Military service Along with his two brothers, John Stuart and Frederick Hurst, Arthur served in the Great War. John was with 7th Battalion, King's Shropshire Light Infantry and did not survive the war. Arthur served with 10th (South Belfast) Battalion, Royal Irish Rifles. He was awarded the Military Cross, his citation reading:

"For conspicuous gallantry in action. He kept his company in hand with great determination under heavy fire, and finally led it over "No Man's Land" into the enemy's lines. Later, he did fine work in organizing the defences of the captured trenches." By the end of the war he was a Temporary Captain.

Personal life and family Arthur's brother Frederick Hurst did survive the war and had a son, John Fredric McClinton, born 29 June 1923, who, like his uncle Arthur, was a good rugby player, became a Captain in the Second World War and was awarded an MC (and bar).