Dr. Ron Hill M.B.E., former Olympic Marathon runner and local hero, has passed away at the age of 82.

Leader of Hyndburn Council, Cllr Miles Parkinson OBE:

“It is with great sadness we learn of the death of Ron Hill. Born in Accrington and a true sporting hero, Ron’s achievements are an inspiration to people throughout the world.

“Ron was awarded the highest honour from our community, Freedom of the Borough. He brought a smile to everyone who was lucky enough to meet him and was a wonderful ambassador for our Borough.

“On behalf of Hyndburn I offer our thoughts and condolences to Ron’s family and friends at this sad time.”

Dr. Ron Hill M.B.E. was the second man in history to break the 2 hour 10 minute barrier in the marathon.

He set world records at four further distances and in 1970 won the Boston Marathon. He subsequently set up the Ron Hill Clothing Company, pioneering synthetic fabrics, many of which are still used in the latest sports clothing.

Ron ran at least a mile every day for 52 years until 2017, before Alzheimer’s disease brought him what he described as “the biggest challenge of my life” and is honoured in Accrington’s annual Ron Hill 10k.

Ron was made a Freeman of the Borough in 2012 and will be fondly and proudly known as an Accrington-born legend.