Derek Wood

Derek is a true inspiration to all of us who's life he has touched. Over a period of 16 years he has been a committee member and secretary of the Alzheimer's Society Enfield Branch where he has inspired hundreds of people to carry on caring for loved ones with Dementia, he has never turned anyone away and if he couldn't help he would find someone who could. He also supported carers who had come to the end of their ability to continue caring and those who had lost their loved one. (Not an easy task) He fronted the Friday Drop in and Information Centre in Enfield and organised 40 outings for people with Dementia and their carers, always greatly received. He retired age 55 and ran marathons on the world circuit. He won nine world titles and ran the London,New York and Boston Marathons the latter in 2 hrs 47 mins at the age of 60. He continues to run almost daily. Derek was also a founder member of Barnet Athletic club and built up their veterans team. He still organises annual family paarlauf, biathlon and orienteering.He has been president for 20 years. He has served as a Pikeman in the Lord Mayors Bodyguard for 22 years, he is currently a serving Pikeman. Derek, I know, would feel it a great honour to carry the Olympic Tourch on it's journey to the stadium and those of us who have had the great fortune to know him would be grateful if you would consider it fitting for him to carry out this very important part of the Olympics 2012.