Accrington-born Ron Hill dies at age of 82
Former British marathon runner Ron Hill has died at the age of 82.
The 1969 European Athletics Championships marathon gold-medal winner was the second man to break the two hours and 10 minutes barrier in the discipline.
The Accrington-born distance runner claimed marathon gold at the 1970 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh and also won the 74th Boston Marathon.
Ron ran at least a mile every day for 52 years until 2017, before Alzheimer’s disease brought him what he described as “the biggest challenge of my life” and is honoured in Accrington’s annual Ron Hill 10k.
Hill’s clothing company Ronhill confirmed his death in a social media statement.
“It is with immense sadness we today mourn the passing of British running legend Dr Ron Hill MBE, our founder, our inspiration, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a runner.
“We send our thoughts to May, Graham, Steve and all the family at this time.”
Leader of Hyndburn Council, Cllr Miles Parkinson OBE:
“It is with great sadness we learn of the death of Ron Hill. Born in Accrington and a true sporting hero, Ron’s achievements are an inspiration to people throughout the world.
“Ron was awarded the highest honour from our community, Freedom of the Borough. He brought a smile to everyone who was lucky enough to meet him and was a wonderful ambassador for our Borough.
“On behalf of Hyndburn I offer our thoughts and condolences to Ron’s family and friends at this sad time.”
Ron was made a Freeman of the Borough in 2012 and will be fondly and proudly known as an Accrington-born legend.