26 March 2013

Jean Pickering MBE, widow of the coach and commentator Ron, and founder of the Ron Pickering Memorial Fund has died aged 83.

The ‘fairy godmother’ of athletics as described by Athletics Weekly magazine, her fund raising efforts over the past 22 years earned her an MBE for services to athletics as her fund supported young athletes with grants.

Each year the fund would request applications from young athletics talents across the UK and would make awards – a large proportion of the GB & NI team having benefitted from her generosity over the years.

It has given out over £1.3 million in grants so far and it is expected the fund will now continue in honour of both Ron and Jean.

European Indoor gold medallist Holly Bleasdale tweeted: So sad to hear about Jean Pickering passing away. Lovely lady and great foundation! The support from @RunforRon has been massive!

Phillips Idowu also tweeted: World indoor & out Golds, Euro in & outdoor Golds,comm silver & gold, Olympic & World silvers. All thanks to @RunforRon #ripjeanpickering

For more information on the fun dplease visit http://www.rpmf.org.uk/