Tributes to beloved gymnastics ace and character Harry
TOWN’S CHAMPION OF THE RINGS PASSES AWAY
A MUCH-LOVED Huddersfield character, Harry Hayhurst, has died, his family has announced.
A member of Huddersfield Gym Club since its inception in the 1950s, Harry was a vital squad member which won the British Team Championship in 1967 in Wales, and at the time he was one of only a few who could hold the crucifix on rings, an apparatus on which he was Yorkshire champion.
He was the first employee at the now world famous Continental Sport Co. Paddock, created in the early 1960s by gym coach – Stan Booth.
Harry later went on to become a top sales representative for two major companies in the eighties, earning him bonuses and remuneration by using his bubbly personality and approachable style as he travelled the north of the UK.
The larger than life ex-gymnast enriched so many people’s lives with his fun-filled humour and occasionally outrageous antics.
He was renowned for his sometimes impatient way of dealing with slow drivers, which prompted the BBC to invite him to take part, and become famous in the documentary series ‘Road Rage.’
As a sun worshiper, he travelled far and wide in the world, including Spain where he loved his tapas and the Mediterranean cuisine. But his favourite tipple back home was a pint of Tetley mild for which he would travel miles, searching out the hostelries able to satisfy his expert taste.
Brother, Brian Hayhurst, said they had been overwhelmed with tributes reflecting the many occasions Harry brought joy and laughter to every gathering.
He said: “Family members and friends have reflected on hundreds of memories with Harry including; having his head shaved bald in the 60s for charity.
“Attempting to walk the length of town on a Saturday, unable to reach the end for people stopping him for a chat
“His record breaking lengthy wedding speeches and his amazing portrayal of his idol, Elvis, when he regularly sang and entertained on Karaoke.
“And who else would go on his best mates’ – Allen and Elaine Conroy – honeymoon in 1976 to play sports in Spain? Harry and his girlfriend.
“There is no doubt this little man affected the lives of his family and the hundreds of friends who had the privilege of knowing him.
“In the Almondbury care home, where he died peacefully on December 13 after a year long battle with dementia, he was visited by loved ones and colleagues frequently, despite restrictions.
“He leaves two daughters, Lynn and partner Simon, Vicki and husband Gavin. His former wife Betty Hayhurst, his Sister Dixie and partner Terry. Brother Brian and wife Elaine along with his cherished four grand children and eight great grand kids.”
A funeral service will be held on January 11, 2021 for a limited congregation.
He affected the lives of
his family and the hundreds of friends who had the privilege of
knowing him.