Tributes to Read sports stalwart Tom

Flags flew at half-mast in Read in memory of lifelong villager Tom Hadwin.
MUCH-LOVED: Tom Hadwin, taken in 2011 at Read Cricket Club. (S)MUCH-LOVED: Tom Hadwin, taken in 2011 at Read Cricket Club. (S)
MUCH-LOVED: Tom Hadwin, taken in 2011 at Read Cricket Club. (S)

This popular sports fan, who lived in Jubilee Street and died at 85 years of age, was revered by community members for both his work with the Lancashire County Council for more than 40 years and for his dedication to sports in the village.

Exhibiting a passion for sport from an early age, Tom played as a centre-forward for Read F.C and was described by residents as a man who “always gave 100%”.

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With an enthusiasm for his greyhounds, which he took to races at Belle Vue, Blackburn, Tom was also well-known in the racing fraternity.

His first love being for Read Cricket Club, Tom was known there for both his hard work and for rewarding the efforts of others working on the grounds.

Treasured by the villagers for the respect he showed to others, Tom was even bestowed with a Lancashire trophy for his service to sport and the community. Having first won a competition in Clitheroe, for which his name was put forward, he then went on to scoop a certificate in Blackpool, which proudly hangs in the cricket club.

Adored by all the villagers, including his friends at Read Constitutional Club and The Stork Hotel, as well as by his grandchildren, Tom will remain a heartbeat of sporting life in the village.