In recent days we have heard the very sad news of the deaths of Maggie Lord and James Hutchings, two members who both made huge contributions to Harborne Hockey Club over many years.

Maggie was the driving force behind the creation of a properly combined men's and women's club. She was dynamic, welcoming, interested in everyone and created a strong sense of community. She was one of the principal reasons why the club is so successful and it owes her a huge debt of gratitude. We have gone from strength to strength as a direct result of her foresight, enthusiasm and passion. A former club President, it is a privilege each year to award the Maggie Lord trophy to the Ladies Team of the Year and it is a rightful legacy to her significant influence and involvement in the club.

James was another club stalwart who gave many years of time and service. He played for every team in the club and also served as chair and club captain. Always welcoming, pleased to see you, and keen to chat, he was usually to be found on a Saturday afternoon in the club bar and was well known across all the teams in the club. He was able to relate to everyone and was always a cheerful, larger than life character who gave 110% to the cause.

Both Maggie and James will be badly missed.

Andrew Litchfield, Club President