It has been overwhelming to read the tributes and the heartfelt words shared by so many following the tragic loss our beloved Pat 'Patty' Marston after a short sudden illness. Pat's warmth, kindness, genuine friendship and love for so many has been conveyed through hundreds of messages on social media. The sharing of memories and some amazing photos say so much about Pat as a person and what friendship and camaraderie meant to him too and all those who have the privilege to know him.

As a #hockeyfamily and wider Club we are touched by the wider messages from cross the hockey community, individuals and from other clubs far and wide - as well as those closer to home, current and former members. We also know this is an extremely difficult time for many within the club, Pat closest friends stretching back over 40 years and his family - and our thoughts are with everyone impacted by his loss.

This weekend Timperley Hockey Club will be remembering Pat in the following ways:

- Minutes Applause before each senior match. We felt this is the most appropriate way to celebrate a very special man who meant so much to us on a personal level and as a Club. Clap for Patty with all your heart and play for Patty with all your might - and as he'd have wanted they enjoy the game, play hard and win if we can !

- Player Armbands, will be available via team captains for all THC players and umpires this weekend as a mark of respect for Pat to wear during this weekends matches

- Flowers, we know that some teams or individuals may be planning to bring flowers to the Club to remember Pat. We plan to place all flowers by the Club flagpole on the front cricket pitch - a location Patty spend many an hour at watching the cricket and sharing plenty of chat, beers and banter with mates. Please take any flowers from the pitches to the flagpole after your games and take a few minutes to remember Pat.

The Hockey Committee has also agreed this evening to inaugurate a new THC Award - The 'Pat Marston Club Umpire of the Year' Trophy in memory of Pat and all that he stood for as a club member, umpire and person. Pat's memory, and what he stood for, will then stay part of Timperley Hockey Club for many years to come. We can already imagine Pat's Trophy sitting next to the 'Terry Horan Trophy' and the pair of them looking down on us having a right natter about what we're all doing on and off the pitch!

As a wider club we'll be reflecting on any wider ways to remember Pat and any wishes his family may have.

In these Covid times, we all know that giving Pat the send off and saying our farewells will be challenging. It is also too early to update on any arrangements and or family plans. As with Chris 'Boy' Ryder we hope when 'normal' returns we can join together as a Club to remember them both in the most appropriate way.

In the meantime if you find yourself a drink this weekend just take a moment and raise a glass to Patty.