Long standing members will be much saddened to hear of the death of Erich Winter from TG Lage, Horsham Joggers’ Twin Running Club in Germany.

In 1988 it was Erich who first made contact with Horsham Joggers, through the ‘Town Twinning’ Scheme, to establish a link between the two clubs. There followed 35 years of fun, friendship, and the shared enjoyment of running. Over that period, in his role as Chairman of the running club, Erich helped to organise and took part in many events.

Over the years the TG Lage runners have visited Horsham to take part in the Barns Green Half Marathon many times including in 1993 when they sent a team of 53 runners. In return, members of Horsham Joggers have visited Lage to take part in various events, including the Adventslauf (Christmas Race), the Volkslauf (People’s Race) and the gruelling Hermanslauf, which takes place over 30 kilometres of challenging terrain.

In addition, the two clubs have undertaken joint relay races to St Johann in Austria, Prague in Chechia, Cressier in Switzerland, Laage in the old East Germany and combined runs between Horsham and Lage and around The Netherlands. The shared experiences of running together and the associated social events have led to a strong and affectionate friendships between the two clubs and Erich was a key driver of both the sport and social events.

A physiotherapist by profession Erich, established a very successful practice in Lage which continues to flourish under the leadership of his two sons, Jorg and Dirk who are also both keen runners. Above all, those who knew Erich will remember him for his kind heart, generosity of spirit and great sense of fun. Erich and his beloved wife Ingeborg hosted many events for Horsham Joggers at their home. He will be greatly missed by friends in both Germany and Horsham.

Erich’s funeral took place on Friday 24th November and a floral tribute has been sent on behalf of Horsham Joggers; a small group of members travelled to Germany to attend the funeral.