Bob Hill Remembered

A number of former players at the club will have fond memories of Bob. It is important to remember and acknowledge those who worked so hard for their club and this great sport. This is a brief tribute. I am indebted to a telephone interview with Mark Rowe for the information herein.

Bob Hill was a policeman in town when the St Ives’ station was in Wills Lane back in the 80s. His best friend was Grant Champion, amiable captain of the Cornish county championship winning side. To say Bob loved his rugby is an understatement. His was a passion that helped St Ives through some very difficult times. It also brought about strong links with Cornwall Police, who regularly played their Wednesday fixtures at Alexandra Road. Often, he would invite young St Ives lads into the team, availing them the opportunity to develop their game. This liaison extended to Tuesday evening league cricket, where the combined police and St Ives side reigned supreme for several years, all thanks to his tremendous efforts. This included gaining sponsorship from Scandles nightclub, the upper floor of Master Roberts, now Weatherspoons.

Bob was not a great player, but he was an immense clubman, the sort that always required, but seldom found. He happily played for the Nomads and regularly captained the side in the 80s and 90s. Later, when the Nomads side disbanded for lack of players, he stepped up the 2ndXV, where again he had a spell as captain. By the end of the century many key players retired and the quality of rugby faded. St Ives found it difficult to field sides, especially for the long away trips. Bob was always willing to play in whatever position selected.

Around the beginning of the new millennium Bob moved from St Ives. He completed his policing in the Special Branch. He became a keen Exeter Chiefs supporter. It was on a recent away trip to Clermont in France that he died at the age of just 55 years.

Funeral Arrangements

The funeral will be held at Penmount Crematorium, Truro TR4 9AA at 11 o’clock on Friday 24th Feb 2017. The funeral directors are Personal Choice, 4 Alexandra Rd, St. Austell. Family flowers only are requested. The Dress Code is Standard Dress. For those who are a member of Rugby Clubs/Cricket Clubs, please wear your club ties. There will be a wake after the service; details will be announced in due course, or at the service.