Tony Aspin

Born on the 15th April 1939. Died on the 30th January 2016, age 76.

Tony (Anthony) was born and bred in Accrington. On leaving school he became a Television Engineer and played local football for many years. Later in life Tony worked for Royal Mail and after ‘retirement’ became the ‘caretaker’ at Aldi in Accrington until 70 years of age. Tony had 51 years married to wife Eileen and they had three children and a number of grandchildren, all of whom played a big part in their lives.

When the ‘running boom’ took off, originally in the USA, and then transferred to the UK in the late 70’s and early 80’s Tony joined Clayton-le-Moors Harriers (15th October 1981) and did many road races including marathons. He then discovered a love of the fells and he did many fell races around the North West. Tony played a big part in the ‘Saturday Group’ which runs from different local venues each week. Around 10 years (or more) ago Tony began to develop knee problems and asked if we could keep the ‘Saturday run’ to two hours rather the anything up to three hours and maybe more on some occasions. He later found running too much of an ordeal and set up a Saturday Cycling Group.

Tony was diagnosed with cancer around three years ago but maintained a positive outlook and continued to socialise with club friends. He passed away peacefully at home with his family.

The funeral will be held on Tuesday 9th February at St Anne’s Church in Accrington at 11 am followed by a service at the Accrington Cemetery at 12.20 pm and social event at the Globe Bowling Club, Fern Gore, Accrington.

Paul Healey