George was appointed chief coach and announced before anybody could coach athletics, they themselves had to be fit. The first session was to say the least traumatic. George had marked a 400m circuit in the grass area that at the time existed where the red grass track was later to be placed, and soon had those present doing warm up exercises before undertaking a series of sprints, jogging and jumping that created total exhaustion. This torture continued for some weeks with the end result that a number of people decided enough was enough and withdrew but the remainder were indeed a lot fitter and prepared for the good times ahead.

At a committee meeting held on the 31st August 1978 it was considered the club was now ready to take the next step and arrange for enrolments of prospective members. Application forms had been printed, a club logo had been designed by Mr Brian Amor and letter heads printed, posters and hand outs ready for distribution and display throughout the town. 6.30pm Tuesday 5th September was agreed time and date for enrolment to commence. Cometh the day, cometh the rain. The weather was such that it was considered that no one would venture out, but surprise, surprise, something like seventy people turned up and Droitwich Athletics Club was up and nearly running.

With no equipment, no money or track facilities, fund raising was of utmost priority. A sponsored jog on King George’s fields was organised and well supported. With the Mayor of Droitwich, councillor Michael Sutch, leading the field (at least for some of the way) a motley crew of children and parents, but few recognisable athletes, completed many laps of the course and contributed around four hundred pounds to club funds. Successful applications for grants were made to Wychavon District Council and athletics authorities and various other activities undertaken until sufficient money was available to allow the purchase of the basic equipment necessary and training to begin.

On a different note we remember Danny Freer who passed away in 2007, Danny was one of the club’s, founding members, long term, enthusiastic chair and first president. He was still to be seen supporting the club only a few weeks before his death. He is sadly missed.

<< Back