A charity fun run in memory of former Thanet Wanderers player Dave Cookson will take place later this month.
Dave, who was born in Cumbria in 1942, moved to Ramsgate in the 1960s where he spent the rest of his life, other than a two year break in Australia in the 70s.
He worked at Chatham House Grammar School and played for Thanet Wanderers in Broadstairs. Dave met and married Merry and they went on to have three children Beth and twins John and Amy.
Dave passed away aged 81 in November 2023 after living with vascular dementia for six years.
Thanet Wanderers’ charity fun runs were something Dave took part in many times and so this year the run, in aid of Dementia UK, will be in his memory.
Amy said: “Dad was very well known because of his teaching and humour! He was also involved in the organisation and taking part in the charity fun runs from Thanet Wanderers to Government Acre every year. Dad loved this and would often be seen in weird and wonderful fancy dress.
“Dad lived with vascular dementia for the last six years of his life, and he passed away early November last year. Dad went from being big and bold to a literal shadow of his former self.
“So, in his memory we’re hosting the run and it looks like we’re going to get a great turnout already.”
The event takes place on August 25 leaving from Thanet Wanderers club in Callis Court Road at 10am for walkers and 10.30am for runners.
Fancy dress is encouraged and there will be prizes for the best outfit, for most charity money raised and for the first adult and child to reach the Government Acre finish line.
The club has teamed up with the Hotel de Ville in Grange Road to provide some afternoon entertainment after the event with singer Andy Mack at 2pm. There will also be a barbecue and raffle.
All proceeds will go to Dementia UK and sponsorship forms are available behind the bar at the Hotel De Ville.
For further details call Amy 07701 008264.
The fundraising page can be found here
