Derek’s bequest

Keen runner Derek Walton kindly bequeathed more than £312,000 to Francis House in his Will.

Elderly man wearing a black top with his thumbs up stood on a running track.

We are very grateful to be remembered in the hearts of so many people from across the north west who kindly leave us a gift in their Will. Among them Derek Walton deserves our special thanks.

Born on the 18th July 1943, Derek was a keen runner and a long-standing member of the Altrincham & District Athletic Club (ADAC) and Northern Veterans.

A former Altrincham Grammar School pupil, Derek worked in hospital finance and in his twenties he became hooked on running – regularly covering 90 miles a week. In 1966 he ran his first marathon before becoming the ADAC’s first male county champion when winning the Cheshire 20 mile title.

Global runner

As a veteran Derek went from strength to strength rarely suffering injury and ran his 100th marathon in 1995.

Retirement allowed him to make his mark in endurance events – travelling to many countries overseas including South Africa where he competed in the Two Oceans race, a distance of over 50 miles.

He was often quoted as saying ‘It’s better to wear out than rust out.’

Derek was also a blood donor and was honoured aged 73 by NHS Blood and Transplant for donating blood 100 times.

He lived in Timperley and died aged 74.

A kind man

His cousin Stella Blackburn says: “Derek was a very caring and generous person. We grew up together and he was like a brother to me. He was loved by many long-standing friends and he also loved children.”

Derek very kindly bequeathed the sum of £312,303.79 to Francis House.

“We were extremely grateful to receive this incredible gift from Mr Walton. It was very kind of him to think of supporting Francis House after his death. By leaving a gift in his Will, Mr Walton is helping others make their own precious memories.”

Rachael Taylor, assistant to the chief executive and solicitor

To make a difference to others by leaving a gift in your Will call Rachael Taylor on 0161 443 2200 or email legacies@francishouse.org.uk

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