03 Jun Sad News – loss of members

Some sad news regarding the loss of some of our long standing members:

Keith Welch
He became a member of WRC in 1962. He served WRC in many roles: Captain 1983-84, Treasurer, Regatta Secretary, WRC representative on the River Sports Committee. He passed his umpires exam in 1968, umpiring at local regattas from then until 2019.

In the 1960’s Worcester Rowing Club consisted of just the original wooden building on the site of the now Regional Centre, with just a few boats that were stored underneath it. The boathouse was not constructed until the 1970’s. Keith was one of the members instrumental in growing WRC from such a small facility to the Club that we have today. For the last 25 years he took a lead role in organising the Veterans Cycle Trip which has been greatly enjoyed by those (myself included) who have participated every September.

He will be greatly missed by all those that knew him. Lorraine (Keith’s wife) would like to thank everyone for their kind messages and good wishes over the last few weeks. Keith was always interested to the very end to hear them.

His funeral will be on Thursday 11th June, 2.30pm at Worcester Crematorium.

Phil Johnson
He became a member of WRC in the late 1940’s, after completing his National Service. As well as rowing he was Captain for 2 years in the 1950’s and also 1961 & 62. He was also a coach. Not all the members of the crews had cars in those days so Phil would drive them to regattas.

He was made a life member of WRC in thanks for his service to the Club. For the last several years he has been the Regatta President.

He will be sadly missed by all that knew him.

Geoff Allen
Geoff was Captain of the club in 1997/1998 and helped shape it into what it is today. Whilst he has not been seen at the club for many years our thoughts go out to his family.