Alistair Patten

ByJack O'Hara

Alistair Patten

By David Scott

When I joined Clayton in 1959 as a 16 year old boy I looked up to the Senior men, 4 of whom became my heroes. They were legends with unbelievable performances to their names. These men were Stan Bradshaw, George Brass, Alan Heaton and Alistair Patten. Sadly last Sunday, 21st November, Alistair died, the last of my heroes to leave us.

Alistair was the first British counter in the World Orienteering Championship in 1966. In 1968, along with 2 others, he planned and organised the first Two Day Two Man Mt. Marathon. Over the years I have run with him on many occasions in Club Runs and Cross Country races. In the 3 Peaks, along with Stan, George, Alan and myself he was one of the first people to receive the special award for having completed 21 races. In 1974, he and I together with John Haworth completed the Bob Graham Round and became Nos. 20, 21 and 22 in the BG Club.

A Clayton stalwart, a special man!

About the author

Jack O'Hara