Vivian Gibbins

Vivian Gibbins was born in Forest Gate on 10th August, 1901. A talented footballer, he played for Clapton while training as a schoolteacher.

In 1923 Gibbins signed as a amateur for West Ham United and he made his debut in a game Nottingham Forest on 15th December 1923. He also played in games against Aston Villa and Sheffield United that season.

Gibbins continued to play for Clapton and he won the FA Amateur Cup with the club in 1924 and 1925. Gibbins also won two amateur international caps against France during this period.

Gibbins played in only one game for West Ham United in the 1925-26 season. Gibbins scored two goals in the 6-0 victory over Bolton Wanderers.

In the 1926-27 season Gibbins was persuaded to play in 22 games for West Ham. The team that season included Jim Barrett, Sid Bishop, George Carter, Alfred Earl, Stanley Earle, Jimmy Collins, Jack Hebden, Tommy Hodgson, Edward Hufton, Billy Moore, Jimmy Ruffell, Vic Watson, Billy Williams and Tommy Yews. The club finished in 6th place with the top scorers being Watson (34), Ruffell (13), Earle (13) and Yews (8).

Gibbins played in 25 games in the 1927-28 season. He scored 15 goals making him second top scorer after Jimmy Ruffell (18). Gibbins teaching responsibilities continued to limit the games he played. However, he remained a consistent goalscorer and in the 1930-31 season he headed the list with 18 goals in 21 league games.

Vivian Gibbins joined Brentford in the 1931 season. While at West Ham United he had scored 63 goals in 138 league and cup games. He also played for Bristol Rovers (1932) and Southampton (1933). After retiring from football Gibbins served as headmaster of Harold Road School.

Vivian Gibbins died in Herne Bay on 21st November, 1979.