Tributes to keen runner

A 23-YEAR-OLD who was found dead in woods at Kenfig Hill last month has been remembered as a talented runner and a “truly wonderful” young man.

A TWENTY-THREEYEAR-OLD who was found dead in an area of South Wales woodland last month has been remembered as a talented runner and a “truly wonderful” young man.

Tributes have been paid to Jack Couch, whose body was found in woods at Kenfig Hill, near Bridgend, on June 29.

At the time, South Wales Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious.

Several floral tributes were left at the scene following his death.

Joanne Edwards, vice chairperson and membership secretary of the Cornelly Striders – an athletic club that Mr Couch was a member of – said Mr Couch joined the Striders three years ago with his friend.

Mr Couch, from Newton, in Porthcawl, was a strong runner who always wore his dad’s running vest from the’ ’80s even though the kit had changed over the years, she said.

“He always supported others in their training whether they were old or young,” Ms Edwards added. “He even offered to teach me how to swim rather than spend money on lessons.

“He was a really good teacher to everyone and we always told him that is what he should do in life, as he had so much patience.

“He loved running barefoot on the beach and had an infectious smile.

“He lifted up the lives of everybody around them and a had a real impact on everyone. He would go out of his way for everyone. He was so talented.”

Ms Edwards said his club colleagues had been devastated by the loss.

The club will create a new race and trophy in his name, she said.

Last weekend, Porthcawl Parkrun held a min- ute’s applause for Mr Couch as he was “very well known” in the running community.

Mr Couch was a former student at Porthcawl Comprehensive School.

Clare Crook, head of sixth form at the school, said said: “Jack was always smiling.

“He was well mannered, impeccably dressed, lots of fun and very caring.”

Ms Crook said the thoughts of staff and students were with Mr Couch’s family and friends at this very difficult time.

Jack Couch was a keen runner and was a member of the Cornelly Striders

Cornelly Striders celebrated the life of Jack Couch during last Saturday’s Porthcawl Parkrun

Flowers and tributes have been left in the woodland area where Jack was found

Flowers and tributes left where Jack was found