Tributes paid to inspiring Olympic torch bearer John
Tributes have been paid to the president of Wenlock Olympian Society.
John Simpson, whose picture was shown around the world as part of the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympics, has died at the age of 88.
The image, which showed him carrying the Olympic torch through the streets of Much Wenlock, came after he was nominated to carry the torch by fellow members of the Olympian society.
It was in 1977, when he was mayor of Much Wenlock, he worked to revive the society and its annual Olympian games.
More than 40 years later, those that new him described him as an inspiration to everyone and someone who worked tirelessly on behalf of the society.
A true “Games maker”, he fulfilled many roles from helper and official committee member, to chairman and then president.
As far back as 1983, the minutes of the society recorded Mr Simpson being thanked for his great service.
When London was awarded the Olympics, it was Mr Simpson who welcomed Lord Coe and significant members of the London Games organising committee to the town.
He then stepped down to become vice president to allow Jonathan Edwards, Olympic and World Champion and world record holder to become president.
Mr Edwards said: “I was impressed by John’s manner and warmth towards me and other people. It was obvious to me members of the society held John in high regard.
"I would like to pass on my heartfelt thanks for all his work with Wenlock Olympian Society. I send my thoughts and condolences to John’s family at this sad time.”
Mr Simpson welcomed many distinguished visitors who came to learn about the unique Olympic history of Much Wenlock. Visitors included Princess Anne in 1990 and HRH The Queen and Prince Philip in 2003.
Olympic dignitaries included His Excellency Juan Antonio Samaranch, President of the International Olympic Committee, who paid homage at the grave of the Wenlock Olympian Society founder, William Penny Brookes, in 1994.
A spokesman for the society said: “The role John Simpson played in the recent history of the Wenlock Olympian Society will long be remembered.”
A celebration of his Mr Simpson’s life takes place at Much Wenlock Church at noon on Thursday.
