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Thomas died on 8th November, two days after his 13th birthday after being ill for many months with a brain tumour. Thomas joined the club in May 2003 and was part of the junior endurance squad. He was a lovely young man and had considerable talent. He competed for the club in the Young Athletes League that summer and in the Gloucester and West Midland Cross Country Leagues until his illness prevented him running. He won the club’s junior autumn handicap race last October.

The illness hit him very quickly; at the end of February he broke the year 7 record for his school’s cross country course but within days the tumour had been diagnosed and he had had an operation to remove it. He coped with his illness with tremendous courage and everyone who was at the club’s award evening earlier this year when despite his illness, Thomas came to collect his medal for winning the autumn handicap, were moved by his courage.

I cannot imagine how Thomas’ family are feeling at this time but our thoughts and prayers are with Sandra, Jonathon, Eliot and Hope at this sad time.

Although he was a member for only a short period of time the club had become an important part of his life and before he had his operation he asked his parents to ensure that if the worst happened that his friends from the club would be invited to his funeral. His family have said that they would like as many as possible to attend the funeral which is being held at St Mary’s Church, Church Lane, Cubbington at 12.30pm on Friday 19th November and then the committal at Oakley Wood Crematorium at 1.30pm.

Light refreshments will be available after the committal at ‘The Leopard’, Oakley Wood Road, Bishops Tachbrook.

The family have asked that no flowers be sent but donations can be made which will be divided between four organisations that meant so much to Thomas. Donations should be sent to John Taylor Funeralcare, 1A/3, Russell Terrace, Leamington Spa. Cheques should be made payable to John Taylor Funeralcare. If it is easier for members I would be happy to collect donations and send one cheque to the family.

Noel Butler
01926 498123