John McConnell

It was with great sorrow that we learned of the death this week of John McConnell, an active rowing member of the club for over 40 years. As well as his deeds on the river, John served as Hon Secretary and as a committee member for more years than one could reasonably expect. Until recently he organised the annual dinner. But he will be known to so many rowers within and outside Thames as a modest and utterly loyal man, one who always gave his best in whatever endeavour he followed.

John's death means a lot to me personally. He organised the men's intermediate (second) squad when I first joined TRC in 1984 and I raced with him many times, including at Henley Royal. It's fair to say that he held that squad together in what was a very different regime. When I rejoined the club in 2002 John was still here and welcomed me back. We last rowed together only four weeks ago. I can't believe that he has gone so soon.

Away from the club John (or Dr McConnell to give him his full title) was the founding editor of The Lancet Infectious Diseases. He was a member of the organising committee of numerous conferences, and appeared as an expert commentator on BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Sky News, and so was understandably busy over the last two years.

All our thoughts go out to John’s family at this most difficult of times.

Andrew Seddon
Chairman, Thames Rowing Club