Toby Barraclough, an 18-year-old former Clifton player from Bradford city, passed away on November 13, 2023, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond the football pitch.
As news of his tragic departure reverberates through the town, friends, family, and teammates are coming together to celebrate the life of a young talent who brought passion and spirit to the beautiful game.
In this tribute, we reflect on the indelible mark Toby Barraclough has left on the Clifton football community and the hearts of those who knew him both on and off the field.
Toby Barraclough passed away
On November 13, 2023, the football community of Clifton was struck with profound sadness as the news of Toby Barraclough’s passing spread throughout the town.
The devastating announcement came via a heartfelt post on the Clifton Rangers YFC’s Facebook page, a platform where joyous victories and shared moments of triumph were once celebrated.
In a poignant tribute, Clifton Rangers YFC shared memories of Toby’s time on the field, painting a vivid picture of a young player whose infectious smile and unparalleled enthusiasm set him apart. He wasn’t just a teammate; he was a source of inspiration, injecting an undeniable energy into the game that resonated with everyone who had the privilege of sharing the pitch with him.
Who was Toby Barraclough?
Toby Barraclough, an energetic 18-year-old from Bradford, was passionate about a variety of interests, particularly excelling in sports such as football and rugby. His athletic journey left an indelible mark on the playing fields, surpassing mere competition.
Toby devoted three seasons to Clifton Rangers, demonstrating his prowess and loyalty across different age brackets — from U16 to U18. The vivid green and white uniform of Clifton Rangers symbolized Toby’s steadfast commitment and deep love for the sport. His time with the team wasn’t just a brief period; it represented his skill, sportsmanship, and the bonds he formed with teammates.
Before joining Clifton Rangers, Toby’s sporting roots were grounded in the West Bowling Junior community, an amateur rugby sports team that undeniably played a pivotal role in shaping his athletic abilities. His time with West Bowling Junior went beyond skill development, instilling in him the core values of teamwork, discipline, and the sheer joy of playing sports.
Beyond the playing fields, Toby Barraclough is remembered as a youthful and charismatic individual who left a lasting impact on those around him from an early age. His contagious personality and genuine warmth attracted people, fostering enduring connections and friendships. Whether within or outside the sports arena, Toby’s presence radiated positivity, drawing people to him not just for his athletic prowess but for the person he was — compassionate, enthusiastic, and caring.
Fundraiser for Toby Barraclough’s Family
In the wake of Toby’s passing, West Bowling ARLFC, with the family’s consent, has taken the initiative to organize a fundraising effort aimed at supporting the Barraclough family with the financial aspects of funeral arrangements. Additionally, the funds raised will contribute to acknowledging the exceptional care provided by the Leeds General Infirmary (LGI) during Toby’s recent weeks.
The fundraising campaign is scheduled to kick off this Saturday with a poignant and active 12-hour Touch Rugby session at the Horsfall playing fields. This event not only serves as a means of raising funds but also stands as a tribute to Toby’s love for sports and the sense of community that he fostered.
Participants and supporters are encouraged to contribute to this noble cause by engaging in the Touch Rugby session or making donations. The collective effort reflects the unity and solidarity of the community in coming together during times of grief to provide tangible support and express their shared condolences to the Barraclough family.
Toby Barraclough Cause of Death
Reports have surfaced, revealing that Toby Barraclough has tragically passed away after a car accident that happened last month. Remarkably, he had been in good health until last month, making this sudden turn of events all the more unexpected and devastating.
The specifics of the accident resulted in a challenging battle within the hospital, adding to the devastating nature of the situation. The community mourns the loss of a vibrant individual, emphasizing the unpredictable fragility of life.
During this interim period of uncertainty, an outpouring of condolences and expressions of sympathy has flooded social media, particularly on Facebook. Friends, teammates, and well-wishers have taken to the platform to share their grief and offer support to Toby’s family.
Tributes
Andrew English wrote: “I am at a loss for what to say at a time like this, My thoughts are with the Barraclough family at this heartbreaking & tragic time.I first met Toby at a training session when he was 6 years old, he had the distinctive hair cut that you could spot a mile away & the lovable cheek we came to love. He along with his teammates were a force to be reckoned with in the 9 years we had together. We had fantastic times and some low times but always stuck together. Toby was a massive part of this, he would run through a brick wall for his teammates.Speaking on behalf of your teammates we are certainly going to miss you.RIP my friend 
“
Jamie Leigh wrote: “Absolutely devastatedI can not even put into words how I feel
Rest in internal peace toby you are loved by so many people the happiest boy I’ve ever met such a pure beautiful soul and infectious cheeky smile, we was always winding each other up always had the best time with you, I remember the days when all of us used to come stay with Ruby and you would always come in and be winding us up Throwing stuff at us and drawing on our faces when we was asleep, making chicken noodles at 3 in the morning, eating pancakes with gravy on a morning, when you used to come have to spend days at the yard with us all when you had been miss behaving at home you secretly loved been at the yard, when you came to equifest with us we went to the party didn’t get back to the camp till 2am you was making us all proper belly laugh at the stables taking the piss out of people having a good old laugh because that is one thing you knew how to do
When you used to Snapchat me on the way home from been at party’s telling me how steaming you was you little light weight
You loved kodie to bits and he loved you even more he keeps asking me “how’s Toby” “is Toby okay now” he misses you so much Toby he will never forget you, you was the best with him when you saw him
My love,thoughts and prayers are with you all Adele, Ruby, Glenn and Lukeyou fought till the end Toby and we knew you would you’ve always been a strong headed boy
God only takes the best
REST IN PEACE THE ONE AND ONL”
As word spreads about Toby’s departure, reaching not only the city of Bradford but extending far beyond, the impact he leaves transcends the confines of sports arenas. His legacy is that of a lively young individual who embraced life with enthusiasm, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known and loved him.
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Rohini (Editor) is a content writer with 3 years of experience in content writing. She joined Medico Topics on the Breaking News trainee scheme in 2022 and now works on MedicoTopics.com. She possesses a keen interest in political and entertainment matters, including the latest and most widely circulating celebrity rumors, and comprehensive resources on the wealth of renowned actors, athletes, players, and politicians around the globe.
Coverage: Obituary, Crime, Missing, Entertainment