Biography

Bob joined Barnston in 1967 and took the role of manger of the reserve team who had a poor season conceding some 150 goals, so it was out with the old and in with the new. Bob recruited a number of young talented players locally to improve the team.
In 1969 Bob was appointed 1st team manager and club secretary, taking over a team which most of the original players had retired or moved away. So a lot of team building had to be done. This took a while to take effect but in time, the team improved.
In the early 1960s Bob started a youth team at under 15s age group in the Chelmsford league. But, it was the next season at under 16s when he had possibly one of the best teams in the district. Runners up in the league and the cup. Coming second only to Witham Town. Three of Bobs players were chosen to represent the league team, and did so, admirably.
Around 1975 the pitch was sold for building and moved to its present site at High Easter Road. The pitch was covered in stones. Bob worked all hours, often alone, to clear the playing surface by hand.
He then started on the Clubhouse building, which was completed with help from family, friends, players and their families and many volunteers.
An extension was the next project he took on and this was completed, again with much help from many people.
He then applied successfully to join the Essex Intermediate League as ground status was now in place, and football fortunes began to change.
Bob is now Chairman, and still in the secretary role too. For his sins, he is also Treasurer and Fixture Secretary for the club. Bob has been honored with the prestigious Secretary Of The Year award for the Sunday League, and, Clubman Of The Year award twice for the Olympian League plus the Patrons award.
Bob continues to work tirelessly for football and in particular, Barnston Association Football Club. A true pro-active supporter of the game.