Harold Fox was a stalwart of swimming in the south of England and whilst many younger members of the BSCTA may not know of this man, as one of the founder members of the Association (then the BSCA), his drive, enthusiasm and distinctive character shone through, whatever the situation.

 The funeral arrangements are as follows:

Tuesday 17th March 2.15pm

Forest Park Cemetery

Forest Rd

Ilford, IG6 3HP

Afterwards at the Moby Dick , RM6 6QU  ( Romford )

Below are some quotes from some of those who knew him best personally & on the pool deck.

"An amazing man, my wife Emma's grandad. The best Great grandad to Chloe and Olivia, was like a father to many people including my Father In Law Bob Carl and a great dad to Jenny.His contribution the the whole families interest in swimming and swimming in the UK should never be underestimated.

Sadly missed but never ever forgotten."

John Courtney

"Respect is what you earn not command
That is something some find hard to understand
You earn respect if respect you do show
From people in your life you've come to know

Of Respect or lack of we do read of and hear
Though 'tis a thing that cannot be born of fear
Of somebody who has power over you
In your feigned respect your feelings are not true.

Many may respect and admire the high achievers of the town
And applaud them on their journey to renown
But with the many some do disagree
Through different eyes we see things differently.

Respect is something you can only show
For one that you feel privileged for to know
And of any shackles true respect is free
That's how it is and that's how 'twill always be. 

Ron & Sue Philpot feel priviledged to have known Harold and he will always
be remembered and respected by our family he was a true gent of swimming."

'As Harold's grandson, I had the privilege of spending time with the man away from the poolside as well as on and I can tell you he was the most infectious, intelligent, compassionate, inspiring and idolised man I have ever met. It was his initial guidance and encouragement that saw me progress in swimming however, it was the hundreds of people he impacted during his years in swimming that will forever remain his legacy. It's true, he could be and generally was an outspoken man however, there was always that glint in his eye that epitomized his youthful and playful inner self.

Personally, I'm really going to miss his little 'speeches' but mostly, I'm just going to miss the man that meant such a great deal to me and my family.

Thank you for all your heartfelt messages, I know everyone appreciates them.'

Martin Carl.

Harold was a much-loved person who was respected by everyone who met him. He always had a cheery word for people and was ever ready to advise and help young coaches.

Terry Denison MBE, BSCTA Chair

I knew Harold when I was still competing and when I first started out in coaching. He was a tremendous support to me as a young coach, offering advice, a cheerful word when things got tough. He remained a friend and colleague and fellow BSCTA committee member. Those of us who knew  Harold will remember his unique style especially when asking questions at Conference. Harold was a legend and I send my deepest sympathies to Jean and Gordon and the family at this sad time.

Lindsay Powell, Life Member BSCTA

'What sad news. Harold was a legend, all of us will miss him. Please send my  best wishes to his family. 
Regards Dave Heathcock'                                  

'Sad news indeed! - We all have lost a dear friend, even if the 'youngsters' of the BSCA /BSCTA don't know it. Harold gave so much to the Association over many years. A gentleman in every way, who kept us laughing even in the most stressful times.Caroline and myself offer our deepest sympathy to Jean and Gordon and to their extended family.

Kind regards,

Paddy & Caroline Garratt'                                                            

(SwimTec UK)                                                   

'While I have been expecting this email for some time, it nonetheless came as great emotional shock to me. I have known Harold for 56 years and have never met anyone else like him in all that time. He really was UNIQUE!'

Hammy Smith

'Thank you Brian for relaying the sad news that Harold has passed away.  Please pass on my condolences to Jean, Gordon and family.  Harold was a wonderful character and I have many happy memories of times spent with him at the events in the South.  He was a  wonderful supporter of the Association and the sport the likes of which we will probably not see again.'

Regards, Mick Geer

'Please pass on my deepest sympathy to Harold’s family.The Association could not have wished for a stronger voice and a more dedicated supporter in those early, difficult years.'

Regards, Hamilton Bland

Harold was a man who once met, you would never forget, whether it was a fleeting comment or heated debate. His style was inimitable and his passing is a loss to the sport of swimming and the art of coaching. My personal thoughts go to all in his family, but most notably to Jean, Gordon and all their family.'

Brian McGuinness, BSCTA National Organiser

If you knew, or knew of, Harold Fox & would like to add your own message of condolence, then please forward it to enquiries@bscta.co.uk and we add these to this list.