Former player Ricky Bibey dies, aged 40

Tributes have poured in for former player Ricky Bibey, who has died at the age of just 40. 

The former prop was born in Leigh, and made his professional debut with Wigan. He went on to appear for Leigh, St Helens, Oldham and Wakefield.

Bibey won the Challenge Cup final with Wigan in 2002 and with St Helens in 2004. The ex-player also won the Northern Rail Cup in 2006 with Leigh Centurions. 

He was forced to retire from the sport in 2012.

Former club Wakefield shared on social media: “Trinity are saddened to hear of the passing of former prop-forward Ricky Bibey, aged 40.

“Ricky played for Trinity between 2007 and 2009, making 60 appearances. We send our condolences to Ricky’s family and friends at this tough time.”

Trinity are saddened to hear of the passing of former prop-forward Ricky Bibey, aged 40.

Ricky played for Trinity between 2007 and 2009, making 60 appearances.

We send our condolences to Ricky's family and friends at this tough time. pic.twitter.com/ZAEqH5iYxo

— Wakefield Trinity (@WTrinityRL) July 17, 2022

Independent St Helens Fans website shared the news on social media. They said: “Ricky Bibey, part of our 2004 squad and member of the Challenge Cup winning side against Wigan has died suddenly whilst on holiday.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to all his family and friends.”

Ricky Bibey, part of our 2004 squad and member of the Challenge Cup winning side against Wigan has died suddenly whilst on holiday.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to all his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/yV3T4Upvtz

— RedVee.Net (@RedVeeDotNet) July 17, 2022

Bibey’s junior club Leigh East shared: “All at the club are saddened to hear about the death of our former junior Ricky Bibey who passed away on holiday.

“Ricky