David Bland

David epitomises every quality that a torch bearer should possess. He has been involved with the athletics and wider communities since he was first inspired to run after watching the Olympic marathon in 1948. In 1956 he joined Hornchurch Harriers and spent 50 years as road running/ cross country secretary, with honorary posts as team manager & press secretary. 1984-86 he was club president, 1971- club middle distance coach. In 1989- Havering Sports Personality. After retiring in '94 he began organising fitness sessions for walkers & runners in Thorndon Park and also organised, for 9 years, town twinning trips for local youth to compete in sports events in Germany. Since 2000 he has been involved in organising charity and fund raising events for local and national charities. In 2002 David was diagnosed with leukaemia yet still continued to train groups during his chemotherapy. In 2008 he had a hip replaced and yet again continued coaching using a bike provided by club members. He continues to dedicate his life to supporting athletes and the local community, young and old, not seeking any personal recognition for himself, yet at the same time quietly & with dignity dealing with his own serious illness which has now returned. I know this honour would mean so much not only to David, but to all of us who admire his many personal qualities, and are grateful to him for his support, encouragement and interest in our well-being. Like the Olympic torch he is a shining light to us all