It is with much regret and sadness that we have to report on the passing of our club President and Honorary Life member, Colin Bolton.
Colin, aged 80, had been suffering from dementia since 2018 and he moved into Pavilion Court Care Home in early 2020.
Colin joined Elswick Harriers in 1954 and was soon recognised as a talented young member of the club who gained success at road, cross country and track events. He was a dedicated and enthusiastic member of the club for 67 years and as a senior athlete he continued achieving much success in the region and beyond.
One of Colin’s proudest achievements was when he was selected to represent England at the British & Irish Masters Cross Country International.
Away from the competitive side of Colin’s association with the club, he became a highly respected coach and was successful in guiding several individual athletes and club teams gain major success in local, regional and national events. He always had a kind, supportive word for club members who participated in his group training sessions.
Colin was also a key member of the club committee and as Treasurer; he managed the clubs finances for more than 30 years.
As well as being highly respected in Elswick Harriers, Colin was recognised across the North East region as a talented and dedicated athlete and coach who supported several members of other clubs in gaining success in the sport.
The club committee wanted to support Colin’s family and decided to raise funds in order to provide the care home with some much needed equipment. Appropriately, the annual Norman Woodcock Memorial virtual relay event in 2020 was selected to raise funds for the care home.
The just giving fundraising effort was hugely successful and the club committee matched the amount raised.
A cheque for £2,200 was presented to Colin and the care home staff in December 2020.
The care home management were delighted with the donation and subsequently confirmed that the donation had helped with the purchase of a sensory table which proved to be popular among residents.
Our thoughts are with Colin’s wife, Margaret and the family at this sad time. We hope they can take some comfort in knowing how much Colin meant to Elswick Harriers.
Harry Matthews, Chairman and Honorary Life Member.
Frank Watson, Former Secretary and Honorary Life Member.
October 2021