It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of former player, captain and Timperley 'tourist' Rob Richards, although most knew him as Bert.

Rob was very much a part of hockey on and off the pitch at Timperley and began playing aged 15. He was men's 2nd XI captain in season 1977/78, 1978/79 and 1979/80, 3rd XI Captain in 1989/90 and 1990/91.

Joining in the 1960's Rob passed through the full era from grass to astro and he was also part of a golden era of Hockey Touring sides that travelled far and wide from Timperley to enjoy the camaraderie and on and off pitch antics of a good hockey tour . Rob was an excellent 'tourist' in all aspects of tour life!

Rob's playing career spanned a great number of years at Timperley from the old shed, Llandudno Easter tours, to the Isle of Man, Weymouth and the Centenary tours to Holland in the late 1980's. Rob was also an Aardvark tourist too for many years. We know many at the club will have fond memories of Rob on the pitch, in the bar or on tour and will raise a glass to him.

Rob was of course, also a devoted father to our own Ana Richards who was very much a Timperley baby, and would watch him play on Saturday afternoons. He was also grandfather to April and Phoebe who are also THC current players, and Imogen, Chloe and Oscar who play at Bowdon HC. 3 generations of Richards' players isn't a bad legacy to leave behind.

Our condolences, thoughts and love go out to Ana, Sandy and Rob's family and friends at this time.

The family invite you to celebrate Rob's life on Friday 20th June at The Stamford Arms, Bowdon, WA14 2TW 1-4pm. No formal dress code but we encourage colour. Children of all ages are welcome.

Please see more photos we have shared of Rob and his Timperley days on the Clubs Facebook Page @timperleyhockey

RIP Bert