TRIBUTE TO ADRIAN GIBBONS - BRIGG TEACHER, FINE FOOTBALLER, FAMILY MAN

Brigg has been shocked by the death of Adrian Gibbons, much-respected teacher at Sir John Nelthorpe School, fine footballer, family man, lover of quizzes, and a very nice chap.
Gib was only 63 when he passed away and the community's sympathies are extended to Jane and his family.
Some of us will remember being at Brigg Grammar when Gib was a pupil, playing with and against him at various sports and enjoying his company off the field over so many years.
As Brigg youngsters,  many of us failed to appreciate the difference between the terms "school teacher" and "school master." Later, all became clear. A school master, of the old school, is someone who not only carries out duties during school hours but at all other times of the week, whevever required. Adrian Gibbons was one of these dedicated types. He always saw the best in people and encouraged them to achieve their goals. He carried this on to the sports fields of North Lincolnshire, too. In the pub, over a drink, he was always the very best of company. He loved to take part in the sporting reunions which brought young, and not so young, players together to enjoy a friendly contest. 
Gib was a natural sportsman who did well at any he found time for in his busy schedule.
He was a talented cricketer and should have played more games in the local leagues than he did. But football was No. 1 sport, and how he loved turning out for Briggensians FC!
Of course he had operated in a much higher standard in his younger days. But Gib played for enjoyment, to help his team and to encourage others to do likewise. This was why his career was a very long one.
Many people enjoyed the quizzes at the Britannia Inn, Brigg, which he helped to organise and which reflected his wide knowledge of many subjects.
Gib was a true gentleman. He will be greatly missed by many, many people of all ages.

Here are the funeral arrangements 

Read an extensive tribute to Gib here

HERE'S A SELECTION OF JUST A FEW OF THE TRIBUTES POSTED ON TWITTER

Liam Redmond: Shocked & gutted. Mr Gibbons was a true inspiration as a sporting kid growing up. Always had the write words and respected by everyone. RIP

Robert Barraclough: RIP Mr Gibbons. A top teacher and a true gent, one of the shining lights of my school years. Brigg has lost a legend!

The Official Luddo: Awful news today - RIP Mr Gibbons, Nelthorpe's greatest teacher will be sadly missed

Calum Christopherson: Can't believe the news about Mr Gibbons. All round great bloke, taught me a lot.

Lucie Ward: Nelthorpe really are a family, a family who has sadly lost such an inspiring man. Gone but never forgotten! Rest in peace Mr Gibbons

George Reeve: R.I.P Mr Gibbons. So much respect for you; you'll never be forgotten.