Former Bristol Rovers manager has died
Former Bristol Rovers manager Bobby Campbell has died after a short illness, aged 86.
Mr Campbell, who passed away on Sunday, spent almost two decades at the club.
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Former Bristol Rovers manager Bobby Campbell
He joined Rovers at Eastville in May 1961 as first team coach and spent two years as manager between 1977 and 1979.
In his time with Bristol Rovers, he enjoyed two successful League Cup runs, including a win at Old Trafford and also promotion to Division Two.
After retiring from football, the former Scotland and Chelsea player lived in Bristol and continued to watch Rovers matches.
He scored 36 goals in 188 league appearances for Chelsea including a goal in the 1950 FA Cup against Newcastle cited as one of the best goals ever at Stamford Bridge.
A statement on the Bristol Rovers website said people at the club were saddened to hear of Mr Campbell's death.
It said: "Even after he retired from the game, he remained a very active man and a keen golfer. A frequent spectator at home matches at the Memorial Stadium, he remained a popular figure with fans, former players and directors alike and he will be very much missed.
"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time."
Click here to leave your own lasting tribute.
6 Comments
by Fiona Bull alias Campbell, Yate Bristol
Saturday, May 09 2009, 3:55PM
“I am Bobby Campbells Oldest Grandaughter. I had the pleasure of 40 great years with a fantastic grandfather for that I thankyou. You were a great sporting figure and inspired me in sport. I still play Hockey, partake in my Martial Arts and Run and will continue to do so for as long as I can. You told me you were the champ of everything when I was a kid and I believed you and still do.
If it is ok with you I have taken on that role now as Sophie and Jasmine your granddaughters now believe me!!!!. Good night to a fantastic man x x x”
by Christine Green Nee Campbell, Monmouth
Saturday, May 09 2009, 3:21PM
“Uncle Bob was a special Uncle, and my late father`s brother. I spent a lot of time with him and Aunt Mae when I was very young.They lived at Perivale then and all the photos of that time show me with a football at my feet!
Last year the Clan congregated at Hampden where Uncle Bob was presented with his cap for having played for Scotland in the 50`s. We had a wonderful day, and the video of the event will be a reminder of the special person he was, and the special relationship which he had with all who knew him.Whilest in the Trophy Room a youngster approached and asked for his autograph, and this Uncle Bob was pleased to give(he wrote with a beautiful style of handwriting)but I especially remember the encouragement and interest which he gave to the lad.
I used to phone Uncle Bob about once a month and we would chat about family and other things. He was always interested in my walking expeditions, for we shared a love of Scotland and the highlands. I loved to hear of his adventures in the 30`s when he would get on his bike and cycle from Glasgow into the Campsie Fells and beyond , camping and Youth Hostelling. He played football in India, Malta and other foreign countries during the war , and I enjoyed re-living these experiences too.
My family has lost a dear Uncle and friend,the Campbells have lost the head of our Clan.
Ne Obliviscaris Robert Campbell......... Forget not...The Campbell Motto”
by rob campbell, bristol
Wednesday, May 06 2009, 2:09PM
“Bobby was my grandfather, the kind every child should have. He taught me golf and football and gave me his time unquestioningly. His love of life and bright outlook will stay with me forever, Thanks for all my wonderful memories. I can't believe he's gone. Love Rob”
by Adrian Dale, Bangkok
Wednesday, May 06 2009, 4:31AM
“I was an associate schoolboy with Rovers in the 60's and with his experience he knew I would never make the grade, however he never stopped encouraging me, explaining things to me in a very polite, friendly fatherly manner. I had a cartilage operation at 15 and I remember being on the bus stop going to a Rovers match whilst still on crutches. He hadnt seen me for about six months, but stopped gave me a lift to the game and organised a seat in the stands so I could sit down. He really was a very nice, good man and absolutely knew his football inside out. My condolences to his family and friends and may he rest in peace. He is gone but will not be forgotten.”
by MisterX, Bristle
Wednesday, May 06 2009, 4:28AM
“Sad news indeed. Was only talking about Bobby last Friday over a drink with a friend about ex Rovers managers and always liked Bobby, seemed like a really nice man. He was manager of BRFC when I first started going to Eastville back in 1978 as a teenager so for that alone I will always remember him.
Many people forget what a playing career he had too so thanks BEP for stating his Chelsea career stats which show that. Condolences to his family as well. Top man!”
by Jeff, Wellington, New Zealand
Tuesday, May 05 2009, 10:53PM
“Very sad news, Bobby was a wonderful man.
Back in the early 1970¿s I was sent to Bobby at the Rovers ground (Eastville) for physio treatment.
Bobby was just fantastic, explaining everything about my injury and not charging me a penny¿ but the biggest insight to Bobby I got from that visit was his passion and ambition.
At the time Rovers were struggling in the then 2nd division and I rather naively suggested Rovers might be better off going down to the 3rd and re-grouping. Bobby¿s soft Scottish tone turned sharp as he explained to me, in no uncertain terms, that any club or individual should play at the highest level they can, for as long as they can.
His soft tones returned and his healing hands did wonders for my injury at the time but his words of wisdom have stayed with me ever since.
My condolences to his family but they can take solace in the fact that Booby has positively impacted the lives of many, many people.”