Keith Hopson: His life in athletics & funeral info

Further to the earlier announcement of the sad passing of Keith Hopson, we are now able to share details of the funeral arrangements for those who'd like to attend, and to provide a fuller tribute to Keith's involvement and contributions to the club.

Keith joined the club as a 15 year-old in 1955 and was a decent middle-distance runner who also competed for the club over cross-country and in road relays until his late 30's. His main contributions to the club have unquestionably been as an administrator and official, and his many roles included an 8-year stint as General Secretary and 12 years as Treasurer in addition to spells as Track Vice-Captain, Cross-Country Secretary, and manager of the Women's UK Women’s League team. Keith was also a qualified Track and Field Official, regularly helping out at meetings at home and nationally. He remained as a general member of the Club’s Committee until his passing.  He and his wife Tina were also very keen supporters and organisers of social events for the club.

Keith was responsible for the initial discussions with Essex Ladies prior to the amalgamation, and was very supportive of the women's side of the new combined club. He was also responsible for exploring and acquiring external funding for the Club.

In addition to his tremendous work as an administrator for the Club, Keith gave very long service to both the British Athletics League and, after its merger with the UK Women’s League, the National Athletics League where, until his passing, Keith served as Finance Officer as he had done previously for the BAL since 1996 - 27 years of service.

Keith was elected a Life Member in 1973 and served as President from 1994-96.

Keith's family have confirmed that, following a private family cremation, there will be a Service of Thanksgiving and Interment at 11.00am on Friday 5th May 2023 at:

GreenAcres - Epping Forest, Kiln Road, North Weald, Epping CM16 6AD 

No flowers - please. Donations to the British Heart Foundation.

https://giftofhope.bhf.org.uk/In-Memory/KeithHopson

Those attending are invited to join the family at The Theydon Oak, 9 Coppersale Street, Epping CM16 7QJ