We are saddened to learn of the death of Phil Metcalfe on December 15th at the age of 69. The Club had been the centre of Phil’s life for half a century.
A fine oarsman he rowed with the Senior and Veteran Fours and Eights in the 1970s, 80s and 90s, winning with the Vet B 4+ in 1984 at the Yorkshire Head and Durham Regatta, and in 1991 at the Yorkshire and Rutherford Heads.
He held various offices, notably Treasurer during the years when we were raising the funding for the new building.
Unfortunately he suffered from a progressive degenerative illness over the past 20 years and spent the last few years of his life in a care home at Framwellgate Moor.
His brother Kim died in 2013.
The funeral will take place at 13.30 on Thursday 7th January at Durham Crematorium.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions attendance is strictly limited and by invitation only. There are a couple of spaces left if there are people who would like to attend. Please let the Club or Phil’s nephew Alex know ASAP.
The club will be giving Phil the usual send off with oars before the service.
Our thoughts are with Phil’s family and friends at this difficult time.