Rugby match tribute to Nigel (From Barry And District News)

Rugby match tribute to Nigel

TRIBUTES were paid at a recent sponsored rugby game to a hugely popular Barry man who died suddenly and tragically last year.

Nigel Westall, who has been described by his stepmum Mercia Westall as a "loving son, father and brother" was remembered at a match between BP RFC and BP Vets at BP RFC's Sully ground in March.

While the dozens of players and supporters fondly recalled Nigel, who was just 42 when he died from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in October, hundreds of pounds were also raised for the local children's hospice, Ty Hafan.

Mercia said: "A most memorable day was certainly had, and following a very exciting and spirited match, it was back to the clubhouse for a hearty feast.

"John Stafford opened the presentations with his tribute to Nigel, and a beautiful trophy, sponsored by Mike Stafford, was then presented to Dale, Nigel's brother, and his daughters Hayley and Alina.

"Dale accepted the trophy and relayed Nigel's family's moving gratitude and thanks.

"Dale then presented the Nigel Westall Memorial Cup to Mike Mees, BP RFC's winning captain.

"The game was played in a wonderful spirit and was refereed by BP Vets player Steve Pugh, who performed an excellent task on the day.

"I would like to thank Dave Proctor and his staff for all their hard work and making it a wonderfully memorable day.

"The trophy has taken its place in the clubhouse and will be played for each year in fondest memory of Nigel."

Nigel was brought up on the Witchell estate and was known and respected for his caring and truthful attitude to everything, continued his stepmum.

He attended Jenner Park Primary School and then Barry Boys Comprehensive.

Mercia described him as having a witty sense of humour.

"He was a keen and competent sportsman," she said.

"He played for many years with Barry Island United, and the Witchell Hotel, but his passion was with his rugby at BP.

"He was a totally committed team member giving 110 percent at all times."

Nigel, who also adored sailing on his Uncle Barrie's boat, worked around the town with his long-standing friend, Paul Miller, as a plasterer, and would lend a hand to anything.

He later went on to follow in his father's footsteps as a competent pipe-fitter and went on to travel the world with sea-going maintenance with many of his dear friends, including Dean Chuckles Davies, Phil Fiddler, and Billy Higgins.

Well over 600 people attended his funeral last year, which, Merica describes as "one of the largest funerals of the decade".