I thought readers would be interested to know that a local athlete, Hugh Foord, has just chalked up a remarkable diamond anniversary.

In 1943, aged 14, Hugh joined Brighton Athletic Club and on his 74th birthday in March posted a remarkable piece of enduring commitment and loyalty to the athletic club he has brought such fame and success.

From being the club's 880-yard champion in 1949, right through the distances to the marathon, Hugh has been a hero to so many local runners, none more than myself.

With Steve Ovett and Chris Carter, he is arguably one of the three greatest Sussex athletes.

At one stage, Hugh was one of the world's best for his age for 10,000m and in July 1979 won the world veterans' 10,000m road race at Bolton.

He has collected almost 30 Sussex championship winners' medals and perhaps his greatest achievement was in 1955, when he was second in the international cross-country championship in San Sebastian.

He represented Great Britain in the Commonwealth Games in Cardiff in 1958.

Hugh, still working full-time, runs in training every day and wins many local races in his age group.

Amazingly fast, totally modest and self-effacing, a loyal one-club man, hugely respected, the name of Hugh Foord spells magic and inspiration to so many of my generation.

-David Rutter, Hove