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Legend Of Isle Of Wight Athletics - Ray Scovell - Has Died

A legend of athletics on the Isle of Wight, Ray Scovell, has died.

He passed away after contracting COVID-19.

Ray would often be seen at the running track at Sandown Bay Academy. He was the coach of the Isle of Wight Athletics Club for more than 30 years - and founded Park Run on the Island.

Medina Junior Park Run is among those to have paid tribute. Posting on Facebook, it said:

"It is with great sadness I have to say our parkrun founder and true inspiration to all Ray Scovell has passed away - our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time."

In 2011, Ray was the co-ordinator when the Island Games were held on the Isle of Wight.

He has coached a number of Island sporting stars, including hammer throwers Andy Frost and Paul Farley. He also coached Stephen Duff, who won gold and silver medals at the World Fire and Police Games in the US.

Ray said that he always wanted to get more children active in athletics and cross-country.

He also picked up Isle of Wight Radio's Volunteer of the Year award in 2014.

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