Former teacher reunites with Ipswich Town star's coach

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 12 Oct, 11:30 · Archive

Bob Barnes, 81, a retired PE teacher who coached Ipswich Town midfielder Mick Stockwell at Plume School in Maldon, has been reunited with another former pupil, goalkeeper Kevin Shoemake.

Bob Barnes, an 81-year-old retired PE teacher, reunited with former pupil Kevin Shoemake at Ipswich Town's stadium before the club's Premier League clash with Fulham. Mr Barnes spent 40 years teaching sport at Plume School in Maldon, where he coached both Mr Shoemake and Mick Stockwell, who would go on to become one of Ipswich Town's greatest players, serving the club for 18 years. Mr Shoemake played professionally as a goalkeeper for Leyton Orient.

The trio had planned to meet at Portman Road, but Mr Stockwell was unable to attend because of work commitments at the stadium. Mr Barnes and Mr Shoemake enjoyed an emotional reunion after not seeing each other for approximately 20 years. Mr Barnes described them as part of the best school team he ever coached. 'They were an exceptional group of boys,' he said. 'Kevin was goalkeeper, Mick was midfield. Give the ball to Mick and he'd just run through.'

One of Mr Barnes' fondest memories came when he attended Mr Stockwell's signing for Ipswich Town from Leyton Orient. Mr Stockwell's mother invited him to the event in place of herself, something Mr Barnes later reflected on with appreciation for her sacrifice.

How it is being reported

• From Plume School to Portman Road - The teacher behind a Town greatA retired PE teacher who helped nurture one of Ipswich Town's greatest servants has recalled the unforgettable moment he attended the midfielder's signing for the Blues in place of his mother.East Anglian Daily Times · 12 Oct, 11:00
• From Plume School to Portman Road - The teacher behind a Town greatA retired PE teacher who helped nurture one of Ipswich Town's greatest servants has recalled the unforgettable moment he attended the midfielder's signing for the Blues in place of his mother.Ipswich Star · 12 Oct, 11:00

In this story: Bob Barnes · Mick Stockwell · Kevin Shoemake · Plume School · Ipswich Town · Leyton Orient · Maldon

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