MORE tributes have been paid to one of Thurrock's iconic sportsmen and a leading figure in the development of the borough through his work as its chief engineer.

Earlier today Thurrock Nub News reported on the recent death of Clive Banbury.

Now Thurrock Rugby club stalwart Ralph Henderson has penned a tribute to Clive.

He writes: "Thurrock lost one of its great servants with the passing of Clive Banbury.

"Clive was a real aficionado of sport and, in his later years, could be found on the cricket pitches of the borough, usually at North Stifford, where he lived, or Orsett where he had many friends.

"During the winter months he could seen at his beloved Thurrock R.F.C. where he was a loyal fan of the men's team or when with his great friend, Jeff Selway, in support of Thurrock Ladies.

"In the early years of supporting Thurrock, he took great delight in keeping fellow spectators up to date with the football and rugby scores on a Saturday afternoon, especially when Swansea City or Cardiff City were in arrears and he could share a joke with his Welsh friends!

"Many will record his dry sense of humour and the away trips by mini-bus when he took along "Alf", his pet dog-pandemonium!

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"Clive hailed from Shepherd's Bush and went to University before settling in Thurrock, where he worked for the Council as Chief Highways Engineer. After a long and highly successful career, he went on to a similar post with Essex County Council. In spite of warnings from his beloved wife, he entered the teaching profession and became a valuable member of staff at William Edwards after much coaxing from the Deputy Head at the time.

"Clive also did voluntary work for the Prison Service and was a highly regarded Rotarian where his friend, Bob Paterson, remembers him as a terrific mentor for young people as he led the way with "Rotaract". A member of The Palmer's Trust,Clive was dedicated to education in his adopted home.

"In his early sports career, Clive had played for the country's most famous amateur football team, Corinthian Casuals. In Thurrock he played at a high level for Grays Athletic and Aveley. Former Tilbury Town midfield legend and manager, Eddie Taylor, eventually played alongside Clive when player/manager at Bata.

"Eddie recalls that "Clive was a relatively small centre half, more in the Bobby Moore style! He was ultra-competitive, but always played with a smile on his face, a real gentleman as befitted a Corinthian!"

"When Clive retired from football, he thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie of Thurrock Rugby Club, where he was captain of the B XV. He served behind the bar in the days of voluntary bar staff and, for many years ran his own team of volunteers. In 1980 he became team secretary, a position he held in conjunction with that of fixtures secretary and Match Secretary.

"He was made a life member in 2014 in honour of his continuous service and dedication to the club.

"Affectionately known as "Dad", Clive was loved by everyone who knew him. He was an outstanding companion on Lions Tours to South Africa, New Zealand and Australia where he impressed everyone with his knowledge of sport and bonhomie.

"Clive Banbury always "wore his heart on his sleeve" and held the interests of his club always to the fore. He will be sorely missed and will live long in the memory."

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