We're sad to report the news that former captain and committee man, R.G.L (Bob) Green has passed away. Bob (pictured: front row, far right) was a stalwart of Leith Academicals RFC as a player, committee member and captain from 1964 to 1966.

Bob was a versatile back whose playing career spanned 4 decades, from the 1950s-1980s, and such was his talent that had he played at a more fashionable club, he may well have represented his country.

Bob’s family also had a history with the Club as his father, Douglas Senior, was also a committee man and true gentleman. His mother, Marian, or Ma Green as she was known to many, was the Club matriarch becoming the first female Vice President at Leith.

Club President Jim Smith recalls: "I first met Bob when I joined the Club in 1972 when Bob was a well-established 1st XV player. As a player Bob was immensely talented with a dummy and flick of the hips that left many opponents floundering in his wake. Bob was a one-club man playing over 4 decades, 50s to 80s at Leith. He would almost certainly have gained representative honours except for an unfortunate incident when on day before a Scotland trial game he was bitten on the hand by a dog. And that he played for a less than fashionable club.

It was not only Bob’s playing skills that impressed those who knew him. He was the epitome of a gentleman. I am proud to call him a friend."

Our thoughts and condolences go to Bob's widow, Linda, his children, Hayley, Mark and Aimee and grandchildren, Finn and Nell.

Bob Green's funeral is on Friday 11th January at 12 noon at Kirkliston Church. There will be a film show from 11.30am at the church.