Seat unveiled in memory of inspirational ‘unsung hero’

A memorial seat has been unveiled to a well-known East Yorkshire athlete who mentored generations of runners.

Peter Jarvis, who died last year, played a major role in athletics for more than 50 years and was well-known and respected by clubs across Yorkshire.

The wooden seat, which bears Mr Jarvis’s name, stands at Raywell, near Cottingham, a spot which attracts numerous runners and walkers.

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Around 100 runners from major local clubs including City of Hull Athletic Club, East Hull Harriers and Beverley Athletic Club gathered on Sunday, for the official unveiling and to hear club historian and fellow runner Dr Robb Robinson deliver a tribute. In keeping with tradition they then set off on a run.

Mr Jarvis joined Hull Harriers, now City of Hull Athletic Club, in the 1950s, and soon established himself as a swift and versatile runner, competing at various levels in track, country and road races.

He was club champion on more than one occasion and recorded a personal best for the mile of 4 minutes 11 seconds in the early 1960s.

Dr Robinson added: “He is particularly remembered for the support he gave both first-class runners and those who just jogged for the fun of it. He was one of the unsung heroes – the bedrock of the sport”

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Young runners encouraged by Mr Jarvis included Steve Rennie, Martin Farrell, Ray Cocks, Carl Nightingale and John Devaney, who at the time were among the best in the country. One protégé, Malcolm Prince, become an international 5000 metres runner.