A keen sportsman from a young age, having been a junior international in modern pentathlon, Richard joined the Central Council of Physical Recreation (the former name of the Sport and Recreation Alliance) in 1985 and made a significant contribution to the organisation before his departure in 1998.
Among his proudest achievements was organising a garden party at Buckingham Palace in 1992 for over 700 people on behalf of the CCPR, and its then-President – HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh. There were many other major events overseen by Richard in his time at the CCPR, including a number of conferences and AGMs.
After leaving, Richard joined Perkins Slade, now known as Howden UK, and played a vital role in the company’s investment in grassroots sport and recreation. Now a partner of the Alliance, Howden provides insurance and risk management services to over 300 sport and recreation associations and three million individual participants. Their commitment to sport and recreation owes much to Richard’s impact.
Alliance Chair, Dame Janet Beer, said: “Richard was an integral part of the Alliance team for many years, contributing immensely to the commercial work of the organisation. He was a tireless advocate for the benefits of sport and recreation.
“His work here over 12 years made an indelible mark on the Alliance and his impact, more widely, on the sport and recreation sector after leaving us has been immense.
“Everyone connected to the Sport and Recreation Alliance recognises Richard for his work, fuelled by a passion for the power of activity, and we extend our deepest condolences to his friends and family at this sad time.”
Following Richard's very sad passing, the celebration of his life will take place at 2pm on Monday 26 June at:
Alrewas All Saints Church
Church Road
Alrewas
DE13 7BT
The wake will follow afterwards at the family home. Richard requested family flowers only and would like donations to be made to Pancreatic Cancer UK in his memory (donations can be made on the day).
If you would like to join Richard’s family and friends to celebrate his life please contact his PA, Jayne Pinfold (jayne.pinfold@howdengroup.com), letting her know if you will be attending the church and if you would like further details concerning the wake.
