BOB PURKISS - MBE
It is with immense sadness to learn of the passing of our President and former Chairman, Bob Purkiss MBE - a highly respected football official, administrator, and friend to many throughout the game.
Bob devoted an extraordinary amount of his life to football, serving both on and off the field with distinction. He joined the Wessex League Board in 2002 and went on to provide 24 years of loyal and dedicated service to the League. During that time, he held the positions of Vice Chairman from 2007 to 2009, again in 2022 and 2024, and Chairman from 2009 to 2012 and in 2023.
Throughout his time with the Wessex League, Bob was an influential and active member of the Board, contributing his expertise across numerous committees, including Race Relations and Youth Protection, Conduct and Rules, Commissions and Discipline, League Development, Finance, External Relations, FA and County Liaison, and Media and IT. His commitment to ensuring the League was run professionally and fairly earned him immense respect from colleagues and clubs alike.
Bob (pictured left) presenting Colden Common's Amada Golding and Ian Steele with the Division One 'Club of the Month' award for February.
Bob's exceptional knowledge of football regulations became legendary. He often joked that he was “the man who slept with the rule books under his pillow” – a phrase that perfectly captured both his mastery of the rules and his trademark sense of humour. Whenever a complex issue arose, Bob was invariably the person colleagues turned to for guidance.
His service to football extended far beyond league administration. As a referee, Bob was held in the highest regard, officiating in the Southern League from the late 1980s throughout the 1990s. During this period, he also served as an assistant referee on the National Panel, taking appointments in the Football Combination and Football Conference leagues. His expertise and professionalism saw him appointed as Fourth Official for both Premier League and English Football League fixtures.
In more recent years, Bob continued to serve the game through his work on FA disciplinary panels, frequently chairing hearings and playing a prominent role on the Appeals Board. His detailed understanding of FA rules and regulations proved invaluable, helping ensure that matters were dealt with fairly, correctly, and with the calm authority for which he was renowned.
Away from formal meetings and hearings, Bob was known for his encouragement of others and his wonderful company. Many will remember his stories from football's “good old days,” his reflections on refereeing, and his often-amusing observations on the modern game's more theatrical characters. Whether sharing experiences on long car journeys or motivating fellow officials during fitness tests, Bob had a unique ability to inspire, entertain, and support those around him.
One memorable story recalls a Southern League referees' fitness test. During a run, as Bob closed in to lap a struggling colleague, he jokingly warned that slowing down any further might result in an uncomfortable encounter with Bob directly behind him. The encouragement worked, and the runner found the energy to cross the finish line in the required time – a story that perfectly captures his humour and ability to motivate others.
Outside football, Bob dedicated 25 years of service to the Transport and General Workers' Union.
He served as education officer in the South until 1988 when he went to London as National Secretary for Racial Equality. He was appointed to the Commission for Racial Equality and was also a vice-president of the European Monitoring Centre Against Racism and Xenophobia.
Bob's commitment to equality and inclusion was recognised nationally when he was awarded the MBE in 2000 for his work combating racism, a cause about which he cared deeply and championed tirelessly throughout his life.
Originally from North Baddesley and later residing in Otterbourne, Bob leaves behind a lasting legacy within football and the wider community. He will be remembered not only for his remarkable knowledge, leadership, and service, but also for his warmth, friendship, humour, and unwavering commitment to helping others.
Everyone associated with the Wessex League extends their sincere condolences to Bob's family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Bob Purkiss MBE will be greatly missed, but his contribution to football and the many lives he touched will never be forgotten.
