Paul Ross: 1949-2026

England Athletics is sad to hear of the passing of Paul Ross. Paul was a talented runner with excellent marathon times and was heavily involved in local clubs and road running in the South West region. He was a member of the first SW Regional Council – representing road running, and championing the South West region at a National level.

Paul devoted countless years to our sport, including - along with other visionaries - working to form the Armada Athletics Network. The Network was set up with funding from England Athletics and now comprises 10 clubs across Plymouth, West Devon and South East Cornwall.

Paul won the England Athletics South West Services to Athletics volunteer award in 2023. He joined his club Erme Valley Harriers in 1984 as a good runner. He joined the committee in the early 1990s and became Club Chair. He was also on the County Committee, South West Regional Council, and Chair for the Armada Athletics Network. As an endurance official he officiated at the marathon and race walks at the 2012 Olympics, and his expertise has been invaluable to race organisers and clubs.

A larger than life character, Paul will be fondly remembered for his sense of humour and overall popularity among his fellow runners and officials. He was the voice of many races including the Plymouth Marathon, Hoe 10 and the Ivybridge 10k.

England Athletics Club Support Manager Rich Ayling worked closely with Paul for many years:

"He was a lovely man and was well thought of in the athletics and running community. To me personally he was really supportive and helpful and he came across as really kind."

England Athletics CEO Chris Jones added:

"Paul will be greatly missed by the Plymouth and wider South West athletics and road running community but also nationally by England Athletics. We hope that his feats and efforts will serve as an inspiration for others to follow. Most importantly all our thoughts are with Paul's family and friends during this sad time"

Paul was an absolute legend and will be missed and remembered for all his hard work as a volunteer. His passing will leave a great void to fill.