It is with deep sadness that we report the death of David Cocksedge whilst visiting Thailand where he had previously lived for several years. Full details are not yet known.
DC, as many of us knew him over the years was a long standing Herne Hill Harrier, who raced and also wrote and took action athletics photographs and was a former editor of the Harriers magazine Red and Black. Dave was also a long term member of the British Milers Club and in 2014 was presented with the Frank Horwill award for outstanding contribution to the BMC.
Dave was a Surrey County statistician for many years and was a regular contributor to Athletics Weekly with particular emphasis on articles about promising young athletes (Spotlight on Youth). He had seemingly been around the athletics scene forever, writing reports and providing stats for more than forty years . Dave’s attention to detail was exemplary, bordering on crazy ! He was however very approachable and knowledgeable in all aspects. With great journalistic skill he would peel back the layers surrounding any issue and lay bare the inherent truth – many times with a wicked sense of humour and satire.
Dave’s relationships with the athletes were always close, honest, accepting, encouraging and supportive. Many who knew Dave enjoyed his ability to recall stories of the past, some favourites would feature the likes of Steve Ovett, John Gladwin or BMC founder Frank Horwill – his recall was stunning.
There will be many people in the athletics community that will be saddened by the passing of a truly great lover of Track & Field Athletics. Herne Hill Harriers extend deepest condolences to friends and family.