A former pupil of RGS and graduate of Cambridge University, Neil was a committed teacher, specialising in Economics and Business Studies in a number of schools across the country, before working for nearly 20 years in senior leadership, including as a Headteacher at Whickham School and Queen Elizabeth High School, Hexham.

Until recently he worked in school Improvement across the North East and was a trustee of the Prosper Learning Trust.

At Novos, Neil converted his schoolboy centre skills into a formidable second row forward for over 10 seasons which included being part of the first team side which played in our first Senior Cup Final in 1992, losing to Tynedale, before a knee injury forced his retirement from playing, although he remained an enthusiastic member of the balcony.

Our deepest sympathies go to his wife, Julia and his sons, Lewis and Bobby.

The Celebration of Neil’s life will take place on 4th December at 12.45 at Tynemouth Crematorium, Walton Avenue, North Shields NE29 9NJ and afterwards at Novos RFC.