Risborough Rangers Stadium Break-In Threatens Memorial Fundraising Efforts

Thames Valley Police are investigating after a break-in at Risborough Rangers’ stadium, which has left the club without essential ground-maintenance tools.

The theft could impact funds raised in memory of two club legends, long-serving chairman Richard “Woody” Woodward and stalwart Colyn “Nibbo” Makepeace, as some of the money may now be needed to replace the stolen equipment. The funds had been intended for improvements to the grounds, benefiting community football players of all ages.

The loss is a major blow to the club, which has long relied on the dedication and efforts of volunteers like Woody and Nibbo, as well as fundraising, to maintain and improve its facilities.

Richard “Woody” Woodward passed away in February 2025 at the age of 77. Serving as Risborough Rangers’ chairman for 27 years, Woody was instrumental in shaping the club into the respected Step 5 side it is today. Originally from Peterborough, he moved to Princes Risborough in 1986 and quickly became involved with Risborough Rangers Juniors, coaching his two sons and taking on roles including Treasurer and Club Secretary. Woody oversaw major developments, from installing floodlights in 2012 to building a new stand in 2022, and was known for his hands-on approach, whether helping on the pitch, running the tea bar, or hosting club quizzes for more than two decades.

“Woody’s greatest legacy was the culture he instilled in the club,” the club said in a statement. “He was humble, selfless, and committed to the community. His passing leaves an enormous void.”

Colyn “Nibbo” Makepeace, who died on December 24 at the age of 81, was another pillar of the club. A lifelong sportsman and local football legend, Nibbo played for numerous local teams and later devoted decades to coaching, managing, and volunteering at Risborough Rangers. Known in recent years as the club’s ever-enthusiastic ‘ball boy,’ he continued collecting stray footballs on matchdays well into his 80s, despite illness.

“Nibbo was a true character and a stalwart of the club,” the Rangers said. “He contributed tirelessly to our facilities and our players, and his energy and spirit will be sorely missed.”

The memorial funds raised in their names were intended to improve the club’s grounds for community football players, from youngsters just starting out to older players enjoying the game later in life. With essential equipment stolen in the recent break-in, some of those funds may now need to be redirected to replace tools, potentially delaying planned improvements.

Anyone with information about the break-in is asked to contact Thames Valley Police.