Newton News is saddened to report the passing of William Cooksey at 2.30am on Wednesday 8th November, peacefully in hospital after a fall the day before.
Many have been inspired by the activities of the centenarian, who, at the age of 100 walked 100 miles, at the age of 102 cycled 1000 miles and at the age of 102 completed the Great North Run all in aid of local NHS charity, County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust.
Debbie Iceton, from Five Acres, said “he was a truly remarkable gentleman, who lived life to the full, was ambitious and courageous right ‘til the end . . . he was our hero. We will miss him terribly.”
Pat Chambers, Charity Development Manager at County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, said, “This is very sad news indeed. Bill was a great friend and supporter of our Charity – raising funds to help enhance patient care and experience. We have been in awe of the physical challenges he has taken on since reaching 100, which most people of any age wouldn’t attempt and which he started not long after he had been very seriously ill himself. In September this year Bill even became a record breaker, completing the Great North Run in 5 hours and 41 minutes, in torrential rain. He was so very proud to say he walked the whole way – no sitting down. Bill had a distinguished career both in the military and later as a teacher. He was a wonderful man, dedicated to others and will be fondly remembered by everyone lucky enough to know him. We will miss him enormously.”
The local NHS Charity, commented “Bill Cooksey raised thousands for his local NHS Charity by cycling 1000 miles when he was 101 and breaking records by completing the Great North Run this year, aged 102.
Funeral details will be published in a future edition of the Newton News.
