It is with the deepest regret that we must record the passing of yet another stalwart, of Thanet Wanderers. Neil died yesterday 7th of April after struggling with poor health for some years. We extend our deepest sympathy to Neil's family at this sad time.
Distinguished both on the field and as a skilled administrator for the club. Neil is remembered by Neil Roby, the club's current Director of Rugby, as a "smashing man who was always that person who'd say nice things to you after a game, no matter how you'd played!"
I am indebted to Peter Hawkins for his recollections of Neil as a very good fly-half who did much for Wanderers on the field and on its Executive Committee, He also represented East Kent on the Kent RFU committee. Neil had the ability, to sum up, a match with wit and accuracy and this led to him acting as the East Kent Rugby reporter for BBC Radio Kent on Saturday afternoons where he may have indulged in a little talent spotting for his beloved Wanderers!
Neil was a dedicated teacher who began his career at Charles Dickens School in Broadstairs where he introduced Rugby for the first time before moving to Medway where he was headmaster at Fort Luton Secondary School for Boys. He subsequently returned to Broadstairs to Haddon Dene School where he was headmaster. He loved singing and was a past Chairman of the Thanet Male Voice Choir and was also a member of Round Table. His competitive nature in later years found an outlet on the lawns of Broadstairs Bowls Club. He will be much missed in Thanet and Kent.
Funeral details will be published on this site when available.
Neil is pictured, sitting on the right of the middle row, in the 1968-9 season
08 April 2023
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