As if delivering an early Christmas present we managed to field 17 walkers in the AGM 5k bringing together not only the usual nucleus but some friends from afar. Tony Taylor made the long trip from Crete, Dan Maskell risked the train lottery on the Brighton line, whilst Tony Bell and Martin Payne crossed the Pennines. Deciding against a yacht handicap where the cards are already on the table, the handicapper threw caution to the wind and despatched the aspirants en bloc.
With so many walkers on the road there were few spare bodies to tackle the officiating, however, step-forward volunteer Chris Harvey who manned the turnaround point in Heaton Park in commanding style dressed all in orange but confusing those who thought Halloween was yesterday. Eric Horwill is an inspiration to us all and despite having to journey from the wilds of Dudley and Stourbridge he arrived in good time to register the finishing times of all participants.
Ken Connor is still learning the ropes and on this occasion didn’t manage to exhibit the correct walking technique so had to be excluded from the final handicap results. Another newcomer, who has no sporting background, came to Simister to see how it’s done. Nigel Shaw, a young 61, walked with some style and will surprise a few people in the next year or so once he has more racing experience. His final time was excellent given he has no racewalking credentials. The rain held off for the majority of the 5k.
The AGM in progress
The AGM followed the usual post-race get-together and incorporated the awarding of prizes to the first 7 in the club’s annual handicap competition, the nomination of individuals to key club posts, the presentation of awards to the individuals assessed to have produced the best individual performance of the year and the best long distance performance.
Roy Gunnett takes the Annual Handicap Trophy from Dave EvansIan Hilditch receives the AJ Taylor Award for the year’s outstanding performance from Tony TaylorMartin Payne receives the Cliff Royle Silver Salver for the best long-distance performance from Dave Evans
Our club has been in existence since 1907 and across the years it has been appropriate to reward long service and outstanding performance with Life Membership. 2023 has seen the awarding of LM to Eric Horwill and John Payn and to round off the year another name was been added to the roll of honour. Tony Taylor has been a catalyst in keeping the club on its feet and on its toes. He has managed the club website from his home in Crete and created a one-stop shop for racewalking for both the club and external arms of the sport. His skills as an orator and activist are well known and his commitment is second to none. He richly deserves this accolade for his communication skills and a career in the sport from the age of 6!
A proud Tony Taylor is honoured with Life Membership
At the close of the AGM, Eric Horwill paid a touching tribute to the late Noel Blatchford and the meeting as a whole sent its best wishes for a speedy recovery to Steve Uttley following his recent operation.
Grateful thanks to Ron Wallwork for circulating this tribute. For many of us in Lancashire Noel was an engaging regular at the BMAF 5km championships in Horwich, where she invariably dominated her age-group.
Noel Blatchford RIP
The race-walking fraternity has been stunned by the passing of Noel Blatchford. Following her brilliant silver medal performance at the Euro Masters championships in Pescara, at the end of September, she became unwell and was hospitalized where it was discovered that she had a stroke. Unfortunately, more were to follow and she passed away on the20th of October.
The news devastated anyone who had had the privilege of knowing her. Noel was not only a competitive racewalker; she was a qualified official and carried out duties across the athletic spectrum.
A Golden double at the 2019 Euro Masters at 10 and 20kms (pictured) which earned her not only the BMAF Outstanding female walker of the year, but the equivalent recognition by the European Masters Association.
The tributes below are testament to what a wonderful lady she was.
Just to say that I appreciate you sending news of the very sad passing of Noel. Apart from being a fine athlete she was a lovely lady who I shared some great conversations with at Donkey Lane. I feel very sad. She will be missed. Diana Braverman
Terribly sad. Noel was always such an enthusiastic, upbeat, positive lady who radiated enjoyment for everything in life, and racewalking in particular. What a finale, winning that medal, and she would just have been cross, I’m sure, not to have been in the 10k too. Cath Duhig
We are so shocked to receive the sad news of Noel, such a lovely lady, and so enthusiastic about our sport. We had only just sent her a get well card! When you get news of the funeral details please let us know as we would like to go if at all possible. Kind regards to you and Joan. Pam and Eric Horwill
I am very sad to learn of the terrible news of Noel’s passing. She achieved…. Great race walking success … this is stunningly bad news. Adrian James
So sad. Condolences, I have been a colleague on similar trips but couldn’t get off work for Pescara. Great admiration for Noel. Ed Shillabeer c590
Gosh. That’s so sad. RIP Noel xx. Kathy Smith
What a shock! A lot of the LWC lads and lasses got to know her through the Masters event in recent years – this is so sad. Tony Taylor
Please pass our condolences to Andrew. Arthur has no recollection of Noel. I am going through old photos to see if I can find any to jog his memory – extremely poor these days. Bonita Thomson
We were sorry to hear the very sad news about Noel and we send our condolences to you and your families. Noel’s cheery smile and her company will be missed at Enfield League walks. Tracey, Tony, George and Callum Wilkinson
Noel was such a lovely lady, and will be greatly missed by all who knew her, so sad Mark Williams
It is so sad. Kindly let me have Adrian’s address. Dave Annetts
It is very sad news. If you contact Andrew please tell him how sorry I am to hear this news. Sue Barnett
Sad news indeed. If you receive any further news regarding funeral arrangements, please let me know. Ken Bobbett
What terrible news. Noel was such a lovely person I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling very sad to hear what has happened.I can only send my sympathy to her family and friends. Peter Hannell, Surrey Walking Club
Sorry to hear the news of Noel. Please pass on our condolences as we do not have an address for Andrew. Roger Michell
This screenshot of her performances in this very year gives only a partial insight into her athletic endeavours across the years.
You will find below details relating to the forthcoming AGM. Particular thanks to Greg Smith for sorting all this out. Members should have received the notification and accompanying reports via email. However I’ve copied and pasted some of the material in case this is helpful. I must apologise for some formatting problems but my ageing laptop is proving more and more temperamental. Looking foward as ever to seeing everyone on the 4th.
Gathering this year at Chorley
Dear member,
On behalf of the Lancashire Walking Club, I would like to invite you to attend this year’s 116thAGM to be held on Saturday 4th November 2023 at Lady Wilton Hall, Simister Lane, Simister, Prestwich, Manchester, M25 2RX.
The AGM will be held after a 5km Race which starts at 1.00pm.
It is essential that you make every effort to attend in order that your valued contribution will help with the election of officers and decisions to be made for the future success of Lancashire Walking Club.
Lady Wilton Hall, Simister, Manchester Saturday 4 th November 2023
116 th Annual General Meeting
Agenda
Chairman’s Welcome.
Members present to sign the Attendance Register
Apologies for absence
Minutes of the 115 th AGM: see the attachment Minutes of the 115th AGM of Lancashire Walking Club
Matters arising from the Minutes not on today’s agenda: if you think the Minutes contain any factual error or inaccuracies and thus are not a correct record of last year’s meeting, or if there is any matter arising from those minutes that we are not scheduled to consider in the remainder of today’s agenda, then please raise them at this point.
Annual Reports from the Chairman and the President for 2022/23: see the attachment, Chairman’s Report 2022-23. President’s Report to follow.
Treasurer’s Report of Accounts for Financial Year Ending 30 th September 2023: see the two attachments Income & Expenditure 2023 and Treasurer’s Report 2023.
Annual Awards 2022/23: see the four attachments: Handicapper’s Report 2023; Handicap Prize Analysis Sheet for 2023; Handicap Prizes 2023; Trophies-Cups- Shields As at 31 st October 2023. Please note the proposal in the Handicapper’s Report about how the 2023- 24 competition might be organized: for discussion at the meeting. There are two awards decided by a vote of the membership and announced at the meeting: (1) the A. J. Taylor Award, which goes to the best performance by a Lancashire Walking Club member. It can be objectively or subjectively ‘the best’; (2) the Cliff Royle Silver Salver, which is awarded for the best long-distance performance by a Lancashire Walking Club member.
Election of Officers for the Year 2023/24: The current officers are:
President of Lancashire Walking Club: Adrian Edwards
Chairman: Dave Evans
Treasurer: Roy Gunnett
Racing Secretary and General Secretary: Roy Gunnett
Trophies Officer: Roy Gunnett.
Auditor: Ian Hilditch.
Handicapper: Dave Evans
NARWA Representative: Sailash Shah
AGM Secretary and Club Captain: Greg Smith
Provisional Fixtures for 2024: see the attachment, LWC Fixtures List 2024
Any Other Business
Date of the next (117 th ) AGM: Saturday 2nd November 2024.
Chairman’s Report 2022-23
Despite a few hiccups during the year caused by the unavailability of race venues we still managed to contest a full programme of events including two virtual races. Heaton Park decided to play host to a Christmas programme, so our usual festive celebration was kicked into touch and we had to go virtual. Given the likelihood that January would bring adverse weather conditions underfoot we promoted a second virtual event. Other interruptions were flagged up as potential game changers with Simister having to undergo rewiring and health and safety aspects and the Bury running track a resurfacing. Both were eventually completed in time for our fixtures and many thanks to Roy Gunnett for keeping his finger on the pulse and liaising with the powers that be over their completion.
Our numbers have remained fairly constant, boosted on occasion by visitors from further afield. Fred’s principle was that we should endeavour to hit the 20 mark whenever we could and on the day of his relay we had at least that number but 5 were helping with marshalling and recording. The Horwich BMAF races were promoted again in June thanks to sterling work by Eric Horwill and Adrian Edwards. We came away from these championships with a tidy haul of titles and medals. The Centurions 100 mile took place at Middlesbrough again and although we had no club members aiming to participate at the full distance, we saw Martin Fisher doing 50 miles and a quartet of our regulars opting for the 50k challenge. Adrian Edwards was our first home in 6 hrs 19 with Martin Payne a very solid 6 hrs 43, Roy Gunnett a fine 7 hrs 19 and Sailash Shah bringing us home in 7 hrs 55.
Whilst our normal race venues are now secured, I would like to offer the club’s very grateful thanks to all of our hosts and in particular Eric Crompton and Louise Whaite for the Chorley headquarters and Marshall Barnard for the Macclesfield equivalent. Fortunately, both arelinked to the sport from the 1950’s and before. While we retain a tight group of first claim members, I should mention the walkers who have supported us throughout the competitive year. Glyn Jones is a shining example of someone who loves the sport and is always happy to provide his expertise to us as well as dividing his attendance between competing and marshalling. His partner in crime is Eric Horwill, who was awarded Life Membership in 2023 and later joined by another 90-year-old in the guise of John Payn. Both are Centurions. While we tend to promote our own events over distances between 5k and 10 miles at least one of our number, Martin Payne, pursues those of a longer distance and he regularly walks 50 miles.
Two of our club members are responsible for the health and wealth of our association with Roy Gunnett keeping our finances and fixtures under tight control an integral part of any club and Tony Taylor who commands such respect in the race walking community. The Club’swebsite, which he manages, regularly provides well written epitaphs of walkers who have sadly passed away and for whom Tony’s meticulous attention to detail gives them a worthy send off. Our infrastructure would be matched in very few clubs around the country, and it is to both Roy and Tony that we should offer our sincere thanks. Behind the scenes Chris Pearce supports our endeavours as did Fred and we continue to exist thanks to their contribution to club life.
We move into the new competitive year with a sound bank balance and a lot of goodwill. My final thoughts are that we might encourage new members to join us, and one recent addition is already “rocking the boat”! Can I wish you all good health and success in achieving your goals and always remember our club motto: “Health the first wealth”.
Dave Evans, Chairman.
Treasurers Report 2023
Roy Gunnett and Eric Horwill at the BMAF championships
I’m pleased to report that all active members have paid their Annual Subscriptions for 2022/2023 and we have no outstanding debts. For the year Race receipts, Subscriptions and Donations amounted to £1,197 The club won £20.00 in the RWA 200 club.
The main item of expenditure for the club is the England Athletics Fee which was £422 for the combined club and membership fees. The next main item of expenditure is Room and Track hire. This was £420 of which £270 was for 2 races at the Bury Track. We also made a donation of £100 to help towards the rewiring of the Lady Witton Hall at Simister. Another £100 donation was made to the St Peter’s Club at Macclesfield. The purpose of this was a small token of thanks for all the years we have been able to use the club.
At the end of the year there was a deficit of £29.00 Therefore total income and expense were again remarkably similar. The Lancashire Walking Club remains in a strong financial position with our Financial worth now at £1866.18 together with a stock of club vests with a value of £151. The annual subscription for members will remain at £20 for next year.
Roy Gunnett Hon. Treasurer October 2023
Handicapper’s Report 2023
The basic principle in handicapping is to offer all participants the opportunity of competing against colleagues on an equal footing. To do this the handicapper prepares a list of competitors and estimates in advance their predicted time for the coming race. Once the race is over every time is adjusted to produce a Net list which is the finishing time less the handicap adjustment. As you will appreciate this is not always as accurate as we would like especially when we all suffer injury and illness.
This year’s prize winners, headed by Roy Gunnett, contested at least 8 events with Roy supporting them all. Roy has suggested that we offer an alternative method of calculating our prize winners. Instead of trying to do all of them you would choose your top 8 races taking the pressure of you to squeeze in all 11. Roy will work out the points for each race you do and add up the best 8.
Dave Evans.
Regarding the AJ Tayor Award and the Cliff Royle Silver Salver, which are awarded by the membership. please send your nominations to Greg Smith at smithgwh@gmail.com
An atmospheric shot revealing the beauty of the course sees Trophy winner, John Crahan ahead of Sailash Shah
Ken Connor made his debut in the sport just over 5 weeks ago after an illustrious career in running. A one-hour track race at Bury offered him the opportunity to test the water in this new enterprise and although his heart was very definitely in it the strict rules of walking were not displayed but helpful comments from observers were gratefully accepted. The absolute novice was commended for his application but reminded that progress in this event required contact at all times.
Ken on his way to victory, showing much-improved technique
Thirty-six days later Ken has developed a very correct walking style and suggested the surface has only been scratched. He passed the timekeeper Eric Horwill at 2 miles in third place but 2 miles further on was leading and going strong. With his background in endurance events, he managed to stretch this gap between himself and his closest pursuer to over 2 minutes by the finish and has arrived!
Glyn in eye-catching yellow shows the way to Joe Hardy. Pat Evans and Dave Hoben
Amongst his followers was the tenacious John Crahan who has been regularly frustrated by travelling problems but on this occasion coped admirably and won the Albert Rigby 10k handicap by a couple of minutes. A suitable reward for past troubles and the large tin of Celebrations will have sweetened his journey home.
The marvellous Andrea Lennon finishing in front of her adoring fans
Results: 10 KILOMETRES SCRATCH
Ken Connor 67:28(23:23,45:35)
Tony Bell 69:58(23:17,45:50)
Roy Gunnett 72:07(23:16,47:04)
John Crahan 73:49(24:09,49:12)
Sailash Shah 75:11(24:11,49:09)
Joe Hardy 76:33(25:22,50:58)
Pat Evans 77:03(25:30,51:06)
Dave Hoben 77:56(25:27, 51:04)
Ian Hilditch 79:03(25:35, 51:42)
Andrea Lennon 88:36(29:05,58:42)
5 KILOMETRES Greg Smith 36:10
HANDICAP: ALBERT RIGBY TROPHY
John Crahn almost lost for words on receiving the Albert Rigby Trophy from Marshall Barnard
John Crahan 63:19
Dave Hoben 64:56
Pat Evans 65:03
Joe Hardy 65:03
Andrea Lennon 65:36
Ken Connor 65:58
Roy Gunnett 66:07
Sailash Shah 66:11
Tony Bell 68:13
Ian Hilditch 68:33
As always many thanks to Glyn Jones, Eric Horwill and Chris Harvey for their support on the day- not forgetting Marshall and Kath for the excellent after-race buffet.
Satisfied and satiated the assembled await Dave’s wise words
And, as ever, grateful thanks to Greg Smith for the excellent photos.
Our next club race will be the Albert Rigby Trophy 10 kilometres in Albert’s old stomping ground, the village of Sutton Macclesfield. The event will take place on Saturday, October 7th, starting at 1.00 p.m from the Sutton Ex Servicemen’s Club, Hollin Lane, Sutton, Macclesfield SK11 0HL
As many of you will know Marshall and Kath always put on an excellent post-race buffet. Thus if possible, let Dave know by Thurday, October 5th if you are attending and in what capacity, which will help enormously in gauging how many butties, pies and cakes to prepare. Mouth-watering, Thanks for your cooperation.
Thinking of Dave, ‘a man for all seasons’ in Peter Fawkes’ words, he made a rare appearance on the road race walking in the recent Police and Civil Services championships. Indeed Dave’s emergence on to the race walking came through his deep involvement in the Civil Services Athletic Club. For a fuller story see
Thanks to our great friend Glyn Jones for the result. Four participants from the Lancashire Police suggests we may be missing out on a possible source of membership!!
Dave in one of his final club races before becoming the fixative keeping us in one piece
PSUK Race Walk Championships (10km)
Police – v – Civil Service (Ryan Cup)
Civil Service Championships (10km)
Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham – Wednesday 27th.September 2023.
C/Service PSUK Pos. Name Force/Service Time
1 1 Matthew HenneyWest Midlands 59.44
1 2 2 Martin Slevin Dyfed – Powys 60.12
3 3 Colin Harle Met Police 61.51
2 4 Mark Culshaw Land Registry 63.24
4 5 Stuart Bennett Met police 65.31
3 6 Jason Brewer HMRC 66.24
4 7 Ian Wright HMRC 66.46
5 8 Jason Holt HMRC 66.49
5 9 Steve Broadbent Lancashire Police 67.50
6 10 Dave Wilkinson Lancashire Police 70.09
6 11 Dave Evans HMRC 72.41
7 12 John Hall DEFRA 72.45
7 13 Glyn Jones West Midlands 73.10
8 14 Chris Flint Met Police 78.43
8 15 Bill Kingston HMRC 79.58
9 16 David Watkinson Lancashire Police 88.21
Ryan Cup.
1st. P,S.U.K 1, 2, 3, 5, = 11pts
2nd. Civil Service 4, 6, 7, 8 = 25pts
P.S.U.K. 1st Team – Met Police 22pts
2nd.Team –Lancashire Police – 35pts
Civil Service : 1st team- HMRC21pts
Martin Slevin (1st.) Qualifies also for Civil Service (Ministry of Justice) but not scoring for Ryan Cup.
5km Championships (Women)
1 Alexsandra Majewska-Ani HMRC 32.56
2 Jane Hodge HMRC 37.46
3 Cecilia Woods DWP 37.47
4 Geraldine Legon DWP 41.52
5 Ann Crofts Lancashire Police 43.35
Glyn Jones
Glyn’s commitment on amd off the road is unsurpassed
Marion Fawkes’ evocative image of Andrew and a passing tractor made the front cover of the Race Walking Record
In a touching and generous gesture, expressive of the values of the race-walking community Marion and Peter Fawkes wished to honour Andrew’s legacy.
Peter takes up the story.
Andrew can be attributed to reviving the interest in Scottish Racewalking and is fondly remembered by all in the North of England for encouraging members of the Scotia Club (which he formed) to travel to many of our races over the years.
Unfortunately, he was taken from us far too soon, being a victim of depression, which brought on mental health issues.
Marion and I couldn’t attend his funeral in Edinburgh almost 2 years ago but thought we would like to remember the sterling effort he put in to ensure Scottish walking continued. We therefore commissioned a memorial trophy in his name both as a tribute to Andrew and a thanks to the Scotia Team members for their support at our races up North. We stressed that it was entirely up to the Scotia Committee how they were to use the trophy, as it belongs to them.
Before we could present it shortly after the funeral, Covid hit and it has taken until now to present it to the Committee. I’m happy to say that we have now righted that delay by travelling to Glasgow on Tuesday and handing over the Trophy to Bill McFadden, who has taken up the cause of Scottish walking from Andrew.
The pictures below show the Trophy and Marion presenting it to Bill at the Rutherglen Town Hall.
Bravo, Marion and Peter. Best wishes to Scotia from all at Lancashire Walking Club.
in the past few weeks race walking has lost three outstanding characters from within and without its ranks.
The first of these, Jack Englert of the Sheffield Unuted Harriers is perhaps the least known. However, he was a stalwart of the Sheffield club when it ruled the roost at a northern and national level in the post-war period. Jack competed across the 1960s and 70s. representing as well South Yorkshire in the national police championships. This grainy but evocative photo shows Jeck alongside the legendary Lol Allen, both resplendent in Sheffielld’s famous red and white hoops.
Thanks to Helen Elleker
Jack Englert’s daughter, Helen Elleker continued the tradition and was the AAA Women’s 10 kilometres champion in 1984, 1985 and 1986. She represented England at the 1990 Commonwealth Games in Auckland. Across succeeding decades she has had a significant presence in our sport both as a competitor, coach and organiser.
Secondly, another stalwart, in this case of Essex race walking, Alec Banyard passed away last month. Back in the 60s and 70s the diversity of championships and open events, together with the importance of team success, meant that athletes met up regularly across the length of the country. Thus friendships were made. There was a strong bond between Lancashire and Essex athletes caught in Ron Wallwork’s comment at the end of this piece.
We are grateful to Dave Ainsworth for the permission to reproduce his tribute to Alec, which appeared in the Essex Walker magazine.
ALEC BANYARD (1942-2023) RIP
Thanks to Rob Elliott for unearthing this photo
We’re all sad to learn that, after a long illness, former International race walker and Southend-on-Sea AC member Alec Banyard, 81, left us on Monday 21 August while a patient in Scarborough Hospital. He’d been a long-time resident of Hockley, before moving north to settle in Filey some years’ ago. His name is always mentioned when those great heyday times of a talented Southend-on-Sea AC (as then called) Walking Section are recalled.
Alec was already doing well in the ’50s, as he was 4th in our 1959 AAA Junior 1 Mile Championship at Watford, clocking 7:36.8. Ahead were fellow Southender Peter Marlow, Dennis Read (Steyning/brother of 1956 Olympic gold medallist Norman) and Ron Wallwork (Bolton United Harriers) who’d clocked 7:05.4, 7:09.9 and 7:13.4 respectively. In 1960 this event moved to Hurlingham where Alec was again 4th with 7:32.1 on the stopwatch. Ahead of him that day were Ron Wallwork, Peter Marlow and Maurice Fullagher (Surrey AC) who recorded 6:59.1, 7:03.2 and 7:28.3 respectively. A position behind Alec was London Vidarian Dave Delaney in 7:44.0.
From L-to-R: Ray Pearce, Gordon Brown, Bill Wright, Colin Young, Colin Williams, Alec Banyard and John Webb. I1967 Essex Count Championship 10 Miles Walk – won by John Webb in 1:17.24 with Southend-on-Sea AC winning the team race. Bill Sutherland remembered the names!
CORRECTION – Thanks to the eagle eye of Olive, Bob Dobson’s wife, we can reveal that No 36 is in fact a youthful Bob and not Ray Pearce. Bob finished fourth in the race itself and went on to become a truly outstanding athlete with a remarkable record of success in the 50 kilometres event.
Alec was more interested in longer-distance races, at which he excelled with enthusiasm. However, he was a capable performer over all distances. Extracts from a 1974 Statistics Annual records his bests, at that stage, as 3,000m/13:32.2, 10K/48:23.0, 20K/1:36.31 and 50K/4:27.21.
The latter was 4th in our 1974 National 50K on roads (10 x 5K) around Hendon’s Copthall Stadium (now StoneX Stadium). The top 3 were Bob Dobson, Jake Warhurst and Roy Thorpe, who respectively recorded 4:16.58, 4:18.58 and 4:24.08. Surprisingly, despite 2 in the top 4, Southend failed to register in team competition as Messrs Dobson and Banyard were their only starters. 86 finished with a high number of retirements – 36, as filing past a changing room 9 times meant 9 easy opportunities to quit! Another interesting result from that time was at a York 20K won by Roy Thorpe in 97.13 with Ron Wallwork 2nd in 97.26 and Alec 3rd in 98.24. Alec rarely had an off-day – such consistency brought him to the attention of our International Selection Committee, who rewarded him with International status.
The 1975 Lugano sem-final. From L/R Alec, Charlie Fogg, John Lees, Julian Hopkins, Jake Warhurst, Roy Thorpe and Peter Marlow
Among such races were Lugano Trophy appearances – this was a big deal in Alec’s days; for those chosen to walk and many supporters who travelled far and wide to be part of these occasions. Alec proudly wore an Essex County AA representative vest but sadly never won an individual Essex County gold medal – only as Essex had many high-standard race walkers eligible for local races – for instance, Bob Dobson won 5 successive Essex County 50K titles in the early ’70s (1971-75). Alec served our Race Walking Association as its most efficient Honorary Treasurer from 1974-to-1979, as you’d expect from a well-qualified accountant.
Alec wasn’t often seen after Southend’s Walking Squad “exploded” in the mid-70s due to a “behind the scenes row”. This was covered in “Essex Walker” when the late John Hedgethorne was Hon Ed and in the local “Evening Echo” by athletics reporter Dick Marshall RIP. Walkers went to other Clubs leaving few at Southend – with Alec remaining loyal. Over decades Alec has turned up to support important occasions, such as dining at Southend-on-Sea AC’s Centenary Dinner, giving support at a couple of his Club’s annual Southend 1 Mile on August Bank Holiday Mondays and being there to give encouragement on both days of Southend’s 2014 memorable 100 Miles Walk at Garon Park Track. In the London Olympic year, he supported an “Athletes Reunited” luncheon at “The Mudlark” near London Bridge Station, at which a tribute presentation was made to his great friend Colin Young RIP. To his widow Dawn and all family members we express our profound condolences on the sad passing of a true “good-un”.
Ron Wallwork comments: I got on well with Alec and stayed over with him a couple of times at his parents’ house in Great Wakering – sounds quaint and so it was. His GB international appearance was the 1975 Lugano Cup final at 50km where he clocked 4.30.25. He also raced for the British Race Walkers Club in the Dunkirk 50km and Milan 30km in 1973. He was of course Hon Treasurer of the BRWC. Just how popular and respected he was is reflected at his wedding which was a who’s who of the leading walkers of his generation. He was good company and I was of the opinion that he didn’t fulfil his potential. May he rest in peace.
Alec William James BANYARD (b. 27 Feb 1942 Rochford, Essex) died on August 21 at Scarborough,. A stalwart member of Southend-on-Sea AC, he was ranked in the UK top 10 for 50k walk each year 1971-6. He had one UK international – 19th in the World Cup/Lugano Trophy 1975. His best in RWA Champs was 4th at 20M in 1975 and at 50k in 1975. Walks pbs: 3000m 13:32.2 (1973), 2M 14:42.0 (1966), 10000m 47:07.0 (1975), 7M 55:00.0 (1966), 20k 1:36:31 (1973), 1:33:33 short (1968), 50k 4:27:21 (1974). Hon. Treasurer Race Walking Association 1974-9.
Finally, ironically and sadly the above statistics were supplied by Peter Matthews, Editor – Athletics International & International Athletics Annual, one of our sport’s greatest friends. I knew his voice long before I met him in person, courtesy of the many times he was the knowledgeable announcer at athletic meetings across the country. No more than a few weeks ago he was checking with me some details about my profile and that of Mick Holmes
Again Dave Ainsworth takes up the story.
Peter Matthews – credit to Mark Shearman for the photo
So sad to report the death of Peter Matthews – who was our guest speaker at the Race Walking Association’s Centenary Dinner at the Royal Air Force Club in October 2007, when his after-dinner speech was wonderful, witty and relevant. He also appeared as a guest speaker at New Scotland Yard for the annual Metropolitan Police Walking Club’s Dinner and Reunion.
A known heart sufferer Peter died peacefully in his sleep, aged 78. On the week before his sad death, he sent Essex Walker his statistical record on the late International Alec Banyard RIP. Peter was a long-serving President at his much loved Enfield & Haringey AC, and had attended Enfield League races from time to time. He resided in Ware, Hertfordshire.
Peter was a respected athletics historian and National Union of Track Statisticians (NUTS) member and well known as an athletics commentator on ITV television and also as a track/stadium announcer – which included being a guest commentator at Ilford AC for an official opening of Cricklefields Stadium’s first all-weather track, with a meeting which saw many stars competing. Peter was a long-serving NUTS Chairman and had only recently jointly edited (with Tony Miller & Stuart Mazdon) their always appreciated 65th Annual. Peter attended “Essex Athletics Reunited” luncheons with regularity..
For decades he published ranking lists for race walking’s recognised distances – with accompanying comments drawing our attention to the direction in which our event was going. A sad loss and, without doubt, he was one of race walking’s greatest-ever supporters.
Ellis Simmonds looking good and so safe. Much more to come.
Dave Evans reports:
With the rail strike scuppering the normal transport arrangements for some club members, it was very heartening to find 8 aspirants tackling this non-standard event under the hot sun which registered an uncomfortable 24 degrees. Ellis Simmonds, an up-and-coming young walker, made the journey from the other side of the Pennines and his smooth and disciplined style saw him exceed the 10,000 metres distance by 77 more. He maintained a metronomic pace throughout and showed he was a very competent performer.
Ken Connor working hard on his technique
In contention for most of the race was new member Ken Connor who has the makings of a decent heel and toe exponent but will need to pay special attention to the technique and not let his running background get the better of him in this different discipline.
John Crahan in determined mood chasing a watchful Roy Gunnett
John Crahan has had to miss quite a number of club events recently through rail disruption but he threw caution to the wind today and spent 4 hours travelling to Bury by bus. He walked really well given his seated preparation and looked pretty tired as he left the post-race get-together with another marathon journey ahead of him. A special thank you to the lapscorers and those who endured the very warm conditions.
Sailash provokes memories of an old song, ‘Where did you get that hat?’Tony Bell ploughing a lonely furrow
Results
Ellis Simmonds 10077 metres
Ken Connor 10062 metres
Tony Bell 9120 metres
Roy Gunnett 8104 metres
John Crahan 8092 metres
Joe Hardy 7713 metres
Pat Evans 7700 metres
Ian Hilditch 7621 metres
Great shot of Joe, Pat and Ian in close combat – see the result
As ever many thanks to Greg Smith for the evocative images.
Our next club race is the Lambert Trophy One Hour event on Saturday, September 2nd – start 1.00 p.m at the Bury Athletics Club, Market St, Bury BL9 9FX. More than ever it would be very useful if you could indicate your attendance and in what capacity. The track race introduces extra demands on those officiating – lap scoring, for instance. Offers of assistance will be gratefully received by Dave at dave.evans08@hotmail.co.uk
Roy Gunnett reports on a great day in Middlesbrough:
THE TEAM
At the Middlesborough 100 mile Challenge incorporating a 50km Open Race held on 19th/20th August 2023, our club had 4 entries. These were all in the 50km Open Race, namely Adrian Edwards, Martin Payne, Sailash Shah and Roy Gunnett.
Unlike last year we had no first claim member entries in the 100 mile – however, our second claim member Martin Fisher was in the 100 mile.
The walkers in both the 100 mile and the 50k set off at noon around the Middlesborough Cycle Circuit. The lap is 976.45 metres long so this necessitates 166 laps for the 100 miles and 52 laps approximately for the 50k.
Much better weather welcomed the walkers this year than last when there were gale-force winds and torrential rain. However, the weather was not all plain sailing and although dry and fairly warm there was throughout the race a strong wind.
Compared to last year it looks idyllic. Thanks to Frans Leijtens.
12 walkers had entered the 50k and 19 walkers the 100 mile. The field included a very strong Dutch participation.
One of the great things about the event was the friendly and cheerful atmosphere that prevailed – helped in no small measure by the Dutch contingent.
All our club walkers finished the 50k. Adrian was our lead man home, who walked strongly throughout and came home in 6hrs 19 minutes 22 seconds in 3rd position. Martin also walked strongly and finished in 6hrs 43minutes 32 seconds in 5th position. Roy was trying to beat 7 hours but slowed in the later stages and finished in 7hrs 19minutes 34seconds in 9th place. Sailash stuck to his task well and succeeded in breaking 8 hours in 7 hours 55 minutes 55secs in 11th place.
Sailash knows how to make race walking 50km a touch more difficult!!
In the 100 mile, our second claim member Martin walked well up to 50 miles when he retired.
The only British competitor to finish the 100-mile race was Colin Vesty – who fought bravely to ensure he broke the 24-hour barrier- completing it in 23hrs 53 minutes 36 seconds.
Martin relaxes while Peter and Marion keep watch.
None of these events could take place without the support of dedicated helpers and our regulars Eric Horwill and Glyn Jones were there to the fore carrying out refereeing and judging roles. A special word of thanks must also go to Marion and Peter Fawkes for running the feeding station.
All in all a great weekend and long may it continue.
—————————————————————————————————————————-
I’ll replace these screen captures – thanks to Graham Jackson – when the results appear on the Centurions website.
We can but endorse Dave Ainsworth’s best wishes to all.
I wish the Organising Committee, all officials, helpers spectators and – of course – hardy competitors (especially those taking on this severe challenge for the first time) and their attendants the very best in our 2nd Middlesbrough 100 Miles.
May good fortune shine on all, and also may “unhelpful” weatherstay away.
Sincerely yours.
Dave Ainsworth C540
And Dave Jones C987 adds on behalf of Redcar Race Walking Club
The 2nd Middlesbrough 100 miles in 24 hours racewalk live results can be viewed here as the event happens. The start time is 12.00 noon B.S.T. Saturday 19th August, and the finish will be at 12.00 noon on the Sunday. Good luck to everyone and see you there on Saturday.
In the end, our club has 4 walkers in the 50k, Adrian Edwards, Martin Payne, Sailash Shah and Roy Gunnett. No first claim member from LWC is in the 100 mile – but we have Martin Fisher doing it as a second claim member.
Lancashire Walking Club : Health The First Wealth 