The county committee awarded the 2019 meritorious services to athletics award postumously to Wally Bridson.

Wally had a long time connection with L’pool Pembroke & Sefton and, on retirement, he accepted the role of Secretary of the Club. His enthusiasm and commitment was boundless and he advanced the club to new levels of efficiency and recognition in the wider community.

He also took on roles within the county,  including  Vice President, and within Merseyside Schools. He was ever-present and willing to undertake numerous and sometimes onerous jobs. He qualified as an official in different capacities and was latterly much in demand as a Starter . Both County and Schools will miss his presence.

His commitment went well beyond that of a normal volunteer and he would frequently travel long distances on public transport to fulfil even a modest engagement. His easy manner endeared him to officials and coaches alike and to the many athletes to whom he gave quiet encouragement.

It really is no exaggeration to say he was truly an outstanding official, colleague and friend.

It is with sadness that I report that Walter “Wally” Bridson died on Saturday morning, 8th December 2018. Until ill health forced a retirement earlier this year, Wally was the long-time Secretary of Liverpool, Pembroke & Sefton H & AC, Vice President and active member of Merseyside County Athletic Association and an athletics official for his club and county serving as an Endurance official, as a Track Judge, a Timekeeper and more recently as a Starter.  His considerable contribution to athletics will be greatly missed.  The funeral is on Thursday 20th December at 12 noon at St Benet’s Church, Copy Lane, Netherton, L30 7PE.