Nigel started playing for Avon as a fullback or flyhalf in 1969 at the age of 16. He soon established himself as a regular starter in the 1st team, excelling with his tactical kicking, game management, ball skills, tackling abilities and attacking prowess.

By 1974, Nige had become Avon’s youngest-ever Captain at 21 years of age. That season, he played in 30 of the 31 matches and scored 178 points for the 1st team. The following year, he had the honour of captaining Avon in our 50-year Golden Jubilee season, during which Nige scored over 200 points, at that time, a club record.

He was awarded the Clubman of the Year trophy to commemorate his achievements for Avon before moving to Bath to test his talents in a first-class rugby environment. Down the Rec, Nige appeared for the 1st team as well as a host of United matches.

The next stage of his rugby career saw him move to Combe Down RFC who, at that stage, were the best junior club in the area, playing at a high level in the league structures. Nige became a cornerstone of their success and soon became their Club Captain.

During his time at Combe Down, Nige always had a soft spot for Avon where it all started and he always showed a keen interest in our results. In 1982, he played for the Bath & County invitation team against Avon in the official inauguration match to commemorate the opening of our new ground at Hicks Field.

On retiring from playing, Nigel proved a huge asset for Combe Down, acting as their Secretary, Chairman and President as their Honours Board testifies, as well as carrying out all sorts of activities behind the scenes. In 2024, Nigel was honoured at Combe Down by being made part of their elite group as a Life Member, something that he was incredibly proud of.

Meanwhile, back at Avon, Nigel never forgot his roots. He was a loyal member of our VIPs, always kept an eye on our results and enjoyed coming to our Old Players Reunions to watch a game, rekindle some old memories, share some banter and, of course, maybe have a beer or two!

In a typically generous gesture in the week before he passed away, he told me that he wanted to sponsor the next Avon Old Players Reunion. I’m sure that many of our old players will come along for a last drink with Nige once the arrangements are confirmed.

But moving away from just the rugby perspective, Nige was above all a family man with a wonderful sense of humour and generosity of spirit. Our thoughts and condolences at this sad time go out to his wife Terri, daughters Helen and Jo, son-in-law Dudley and grandchildren Arabella and Leo. Brothers-in-law Steve, Chris and Paul Bird, who he encouraged to join Avon, will also miss him dearly.

RIP Nigel