Robert “Bob” Barnsley unfortunately passed away in March after a battle with cancer. He played for Stourbridge first team in the early 1960’s as a centre, in what was one of the most successful teams Stourbridge had put together at that time. He also represented North Midlands. Unfortunately his playing career was cut short due to a cartilage injury whilst playing, which in those days proved difficult to repair and while he tried to make a comeback, he had to accept his playing days were over at a young age. Whilst still at boarding school he represented Douai R.C School where they won the Public-School boys seven-a-side tournament in 1959. He loved coming back to Stourbridge to watch and enjoyed the company of old team mates. He followed other sporting passions after this, playing cricket for a few years at Enville & hockey for Claverley. He was also a founder member of Stourbridge Lawn Tennis & Squash club where he enjoyed playing squash. He was also on the management committee there and became Chairman.

His business career saw him involved in Venture Capital and Business Angel funding and he helped many businesses during his working career. He spent the last 20 years living in Whitbourne near Bromyard, with his partner Annie, where he was involved in village life and was instrumental in setting up a community village shop and many other projects there. Bob continued to be an avid follower of the sport he loved and could be found watching many rugby matches over a weekend!