Congratulations Mr. Wood

Club President Ted Wood was this week named as a finalist in the 2008 Northern Echo Local Hero Awards – in the Category of “Leading Light”.

The Award is given to:

"an individual who has demonstrated over time, their commitment to, passion for and achievements in any sport at any level in the North East.  The individual will be seen as a role model by those in their sport and will have led by example demonstrating the positive impact sport can have on those people, communities or sport he or she has worked with."

Ted has given over 30 years of his life to Durham Rugby – a devotion which is recognised at the highest level and is hugely appreciated by all who have been associated with him.  Bob Reeves, The Student RFU Chairman who has known Ted for over 30 years wrote:

“Ted’s passion for rugby and his commitment to Durham University have ensured that a long stream of young players have benefited from his wisdom and advice.

Though Ted coached at the highest level, including the North of England Division in matches against the best International teams, his heart has always been in student rugby, much to the benefit of Durham University RFC.

Though he has had a profound influence on players such as Will Carling, Phil de Glanville and Will Greenwood, who all went on to have wonderful International careers, he has made sure that the whole student rugby community has benefited from his contribution. He has never shirked more

mundane work, and for years was fixture secretary of the University club.”

The award ceremony will take place on 27^th November 2008 at Hardwick Hall in Sedgefield, where around a thousand people will be in attendance including many famous names from local sport.

Whether or not Ted is crowned as the Northern Echo’s leading light, is a matter for the judges to decide.  Here in Durham he is, and will remain – our ‘Local Hero!’