Olympic steeplechase competitor sells memorabilia for North Devon charity

The Olympic memorabilia raised £450 for Northam Lodge.

Sarah Howells Saturday, January 12, 2013
8:00 AM

Competitor from 1948 Olympics sells collectable items in memory of his severely handicapped son.

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A COLLECTION of Olympic memorabilia owned by a 1948 athlete has raised hundreds-of-pounds for Northam Lodge.

Geoff Tudor, who competed in the 3,000m steeplechase at the 1948 London Olympic Games, donated the items in memory of his son Eddie, who spent years at the charity in Bideford.

Eddie was born severely handicapped with cerebral palsy and since his sudden death last year a fund set up in his memory has made more than £14,000.

Mr Tudor, who lives in Bude, sold the Olympic vest and other items for £450 at Bearnes Hampton and Littlewood in Exeter.

He said: “Eddie’s courage, sense of humour and eagerness to accept any challenge was a joy to witness and share.

“It made competing in a race seem tame in comparison.”

The fund set up in Eddie’s memory has helped to contribute to major improvements at the charity’s Rose Hill site,

Annabel Cope, of Northam Lodge, said: “These works not only provide excellent modern day care facilities, but also accommodation that can be used by other groups at evenings and weekends.”