After 25 years, local legend Neil ‘Nos’ Thomas has decided to hang up his apron and retire from the Scrum Bar Kitchen at the Bedford Blues.
Neil has been serving pre-match meals and pitch-side pies to supporters of the local rugby side since the mid-1990s.
He is one of the club’s most recognised faces on match day.
The club’s Chief Operating Officer, Gareth Alred offered a heartfelt “thank you” to Nos for his dedication to the club
“A larger-than-life character, Nos brought a smile to everyone at Goldington Road and will be missed by staff, players and supporters alike.
“His hard work, not just on match days, but for functions and training nights has always been appreciated.
“In classic Blues tradition, the whole family worked in the kitchen at some point. Hopefully, we can welcome Nos and Louise back this coming season to watch the boys in action in a more relaxed setting.”
But it wasn’t just supporters who enjoyed his nosh.
Thousands of players over the years have been fuelled by dishes such as his famous cheese boards and Chicken Marengo on training nights.
Filling the big shoes left by Nos will be Jason Taylor of Taylor’s Kitchens.
They’ll reopen the Scrum Bar Kitchen in time for the first home league game against Doncaster Knights on 1 October, but as a hatch only service for the time being.
“We also look forward to our partnership with Taylor’s Kitchen who earlier this year stepped in to provide grab and go meals for the players at training and on match day in line with the regulations,” added Gareth.
