💛💙 Last week we learned the sad news about the passing of Anthony Gibbs, fondly known by his pals at the club as Nibby. Nibby died on Wednesday, 15 October at the age of 86. He was the ultimate ‘Barkers’ Clubman’, and the club owed him a huge debt of gratitude for what he’d brought and given to the club.

Friends are invited to join the family to celebrate Nibby’s life on 21 November at 12 noon at Canley Crem. If you could let one of the family know if you’d like to attend so they have an idea of numbers, that would be appreciated. Please wear your rugby tie if you have one, but rather than black formal wear, they’d love you to celebrate Nibby’s life with blue and colourful clothes!

Family flowers only and donations can be made to Dementia Care 💛💙

Nibby joined the club after leaving Barkers’ Butts School. He was an excellent No: 8, playing many times for the Men’s first XV and captaining the side in the 1960’s. He went on to coach the 1st team and then in time became Chairman.

Nibby was one of an exceptional and forward-thinking group who had the vision and the drive to enable Mini & Junior rugby to begin at Barkers’ and look at what that has led to!

In later times, Nibby turned to refereeing and like everything he did in his life, committed and excelled in it. He refereed all levels of the game and became one of the most regarded referees in the country. Following retirement as a referee, he still provided guidance to all referees, especially supporting and coaching new younger volunteers.

Nibby was a lovely gentleman with an amazing smile. He knew everyone and always had something to say, welcoming everyone to the club – he will be very much missed.

He was a loving husband, dad, grandad and great-grandad - the role of grandad and great-grandad he especially loved! Our love and thoughts go to his wife Celia, daughters Lorraine and Lesley, and the rest of the family. Rest in peace Nibby.