In Memory of John Hayward, Trent Rowing Club President (1989–2024)
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of John Hayward, President of Trent Rowing Club and its longest-serving member, who died in October.
John first joined the Club in the late 1950s and became a key part of the post-war rowing squad that brought much success to Trent throughout the 1950s and 60s. His dedication to the Club was unwavering for nearly seven decades.
A skilled oarsman and tireless supporter, John remained involved in Trent Rowing Club life long after he stopped rowing competitively. In 2023 he joined us to celebrate the Club’s 160th Anniversary, alongside his crew mate and long-time friend, John Ivens.
Beyond rowing, John was a successful businessman, owning and running Rolleston Plant Hire. His professional expertise and generosity directly shaped the physical development of our Club. In the 1970s, he and the late Godfrey “Goff” Sharpe constructed the driveway that still provides vehicle access to our grounds, before then, access was limited to a gateway and steep steps from Stapenhill Road. They also built the landing stage that remains in use today.
John’s hands-on spirit never waned. When the original timber staircase on the river side rotted away, he personally donated and installed the replacement steel staircase. Many of us still recall him tamping down concrete for the new base—John was never afraid to roll up his sleeves.
His support extended well beyond the physical structures. In 2007, when the Club purchased the freehold of our property, John was instrumental in making the acquisition possible. He arranged for the legal work to be handled pro bono by Timms Solicitors, and he generously donated half the purchase price himself, securing the Club’s long-term home without burdening its finances.
John was named Club President in 1989 and continued to work quietly in the background, always ready to help when needed. His legacy is woven into the fabric of the Club, its buildings, its spirit and its future.
John was also a devoted member of the Burton Rugby Club and a Freemason at Ashfield House, where he hosted the Club’s Annual Dinner for several years.
Our heartfelt condolences go to John’s wife Gill and his daughters Melanie and Rachel. The family's connection to Trent remains strong, they invited Trent Club members to take part in John’s funeral, held at Rolleston Church, where John and Gill were married. Just as we did on their wedding day, we formed an archway of Trent blades in tribute to John as he entered and left the church.
John Hayward will be sorely missed by everyone at Trent Rowing Club. His legacy will endure.
John Hayward, President of Trent Rowing Club 1989–2024
