Mick's playing career began in 1970 during an era when Brigade were able to field two good sides, winning the Durham Junior cup on two occasions. Mick's physical strength made him a natural choice in the second team front row and he did manage a couple of tries during this period.
In 1976 Mick's career in the security business took him and his family to London where he continued to play whenever possible. It should be reported that he became the first B.B.O.B. Member to appear at Twickenham! Alas this did not involve shorts (which may have been wet anyway!) or size twelve boots but rather a smart uniform and the task of keeping 'Riff-Raff' out of the famous 'Rose Room' Yes he was spotted by a few Brigade lads who tried to by-pass the rules of entry!
Around 1984 Mick and his family returned to Hartlepool and he was able to pick up his career with Brigade. A few seasons later he had clocked up 167 appearances for the club and added a further try to his tally. The following is the mail account of Mick's try and might be viewed with reference to a well known song by 'The Village People'
Brigade ll made the trip to Leeds to take on the YMCA second string but having lost several key players to the Firsts and others being unable to travel, they soon found the going tough against the 'Young Christian Men'.........the home side gained four first half tries and two conversions but Brigade kept in touch with a try from Mick Reece converted by Paul Brown. The second half brought two further home tries and a final score-line of 30-9'
It is not recorded if the after match activities included renditions of 'Onward Christian Soldiers' and 'Will Your Anchor Hold' or a short sermon from the Reverend Bob Shipley!
Mick spent several years with the Retained Fire Service on the Headland just a few hundred metres dash from the 'New Inn' when the shout came. Of course he had only called in to borrow a pint of milk!
Mick maintained his interest in the affairs of the club as a valued Vice-President and is remembered with respect and affection by his many rugby friends.
Our thoughts are with Joan, family and friends both now and during the days ahead.

Ian Fletcher President Hartlepool B.B.O.B..R.F.C.
R.I.P. 'Mick'
'We Have An Anchor'