TRIBUTES have been paid to Banbury sporting stalwart Robert ‘Bob’ Mitchelmore.

A long-serving member of both the town’s rugby and cricket clubs, the 69-year-old passed away in Oxford’s Churchill Hospital.

Born in Bloxham, Mr Mitchelmore grew up in Banbury and lived in Middle Barton.

He attended Oxford’s Magdalen College School, representing the rugby 1st XV before joining Banbury Rugby Club after leaving school.

He went on to become their president, captain and life vice-president.

Mr Mitchelmore also represented Oxfordshire as player and selector.

Banbury RUFC chairman John Colegrave said: “There was nothing he liked better than to see young people playing well, never mind the result.

“He will be greatly missed.”

Mr Mitchelmore was also a stalwart of Banbury CC, who held a minute’s silence in his memory at Monday’s ECB Twenty20 match against High Wycombe at White Post Road.

Banbury CC captain Luke Ryan said: “It was extremely sad to lose such an involved member of the club and also the rugby club as well.

“You need guys like Bob at sports club. He has been instrumental in so much and contributed so much.”

Mr Mitchelmore, who also played hockey for Banbury and was involved in Sandford St Martin Cricket Club, leaves a wife Pauline, son Jamie and grandchildren Ben and Sophie.

His son, Jamie, plays for Banbury, while his granddaughter, Sophie, plays for the women’s team.

Mr Mitchelmore’s funeral will take place on Thursday, June 11 at Bloxham Parish Church (1pm).