bryan simpson

Many long-serving members of Morpeth Harriers & AC, are currently mourning the recent loss of their legendary coach Bryan Simpson at the age of 95 following a short period of illness.
Bryan was not only a coach, but also a much-loved father figure to many of his young charges, who just happened to come his way, and experienced development, not only as athletes, but also as growing adults.
The very nature and wisdom of Bryan stretched far beyond the training ground, as one of his young products Mark Brown readily testifies in the following account.

Bryan Simpson coached a number of runners over the years as part of Morpeth Harriers. His interest in running started when he was doing National Service and was a talented runner himself.
He started out coaching at Morpeth and had the kids running a loop around the Stanners in Morpeth and back up Newgate Street. He told the tale of finding some of them stopping running to look in the shop windows, so that's where he decided to set up a loop where he could keep an eye on them all and make sure he was getting the best out of everyone.  That loop was on the sand dunes at Seaton Sluice where he made sure training could take place all year round in all weathers by putting up lamps around the course.
He was so committed to his coaching, picking up the runners around Blyth and beyond in his van and making sure everyone was able to get involved and get to the competitions.
He devoted so much time to the club with his coaching and many of us who were lucky to have been part of this have used similar words to describe the impact he had on us all.
Words his runners have all used when his name is mentioned include: Selfless, father figure, devoted, encouraging, committed, kind, caring, dedicated, inspiring, friendly, gentleman, a great man, a great coach. He helped influence and shape many of us. 
Bryan enabled opportunities for kids who otherwise may have been getting up to mischief on the streets. He didn't show preference on ability either and involved everyone and encouraged everyone to give their best for themselves.
Having said that around 30 members of the groups that he coached over the years gained England Vests and he enjoyed friendly competition with another great north-east coach Stan Long with who he became good friends with.  He was assisted for many years with the help of Judith who deserves a special mention and who was a great friend to Bryan and will miss him terribly.
He will be a terrible miss to all his friends and family and when we remember him, we all know we are fortunate to have had this giant of a man in our lives and can smile at so many memories he created for us all.
Rest in peace coach.
 
Bryan’s funeral will take place on Thursday 13 February at 3.15pm at Cowpen Crematorium.
All friends are kindly invited to attend, family flowers only, donations in lieu to Parkinson’s UK, as per his family’s wish.

Bryan in his very characteristic hat, along with Ross Floyd, Andy Toward, and Mark Brown at a celebration