So many happy memories of times spent with John, Pauline and family over 55 years of friendship, training together at Danson Park, working together in Southwark and many happy get togethers with family and friends. John will be sorely missed.
John lived and breathed grassroots athletics. He had persuasive powers to cajole people into taking part in other events than just their ‘own one’ if it meant getting more points for Cambridge Harriers in a league meeting. He was also the first to encourage a talented grassroots athlete to step up, aim higher, train harder, dedicate more time, fulfil their potential. John was outgoing, often said what he was thinking (rather than keep it to himself) and interested in other people’s stories. It was extremely rare to see John be anything other than happy, laughing and joking. His Geordie accent stood out among the ‘soft southerners’ he was mostly surrounded by. John’s view was that anyone could run, jump or throw - all of his children were testament to that. And I’m sure Little John and Julie agree that what must have been such a thrill to John was the breakthrough of Steve into the very, very top of world athletics. If ever there was a story to illustrate his athletics philosophy, it was a home-made one. Steve went from a kid having a go at javelin in the local field to world records and global titles and medals. What a story - John must have been more happy and proud than anyone can imagine. John Backley - we will miss you but won’t forget you.