Date posted 23 May 2022
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Jeff was a triathlete and retired in December aged 58yrs. He seemed fit and healthy and he or his family were not aware he had ischaemic heart disease. Jeff sadly died in February 2022 of the condition which causes a quarter of all deaths in the UK each day. 

Jeff was a member of Workington Leisure Centre for over 25years, where he trained for sporting events. He was also a member of  Tri Lakeland and last season he was voted Athlete of the year. The award this season will be known as the Jeff Heyes Award.

The following events took place at the Leisure Centre and were well supported by Jeff's family, friends and the community as a whole.

Tri Event - Over 65 participants turned out with some new faces joining Tri Lakeland club as a result

Fitness Classes - Various classes were held including a 12 hour group cycle spinning session.

A family Fun Run also took place with Jeff's grandchildren and there friends taking part as well as Workington Reds under 8's junior football team

Sessions were very well supported with the following comments from participants;

“I would like to say a big thank you to all involved with the Workington Tri event on Saturday, it was my first ever Tri and now won't be my last, I have booked a couple more. A BIG thank you to all that made it a memorable event, I really enjoyed it. It was well organised and lots of information given pre race, as you can imagine my knees were rattling not knowing what to expect. The support from everybody, marshalls and helpers all wanting to help, smiling, supporting and encouraging, it was fantastic and a real boost. It was so friendly it really made me feel relaxed and a part of the event with no judgement regardless of your level, everybody wanting you to achieve and a worthy charity”. Many thanks Nick Verall

“Just taken part in the Jeff Heyes Multiple Exercise Fundraiser this morning - 3 hours of kettlecise with my old pal Nicola Plaskett, boxercise with Frank Johnston and a move class with Kerri McNeill! There were loads to take part in and all for a very worthwhile cause in memory of the legend that was Jeff! ❤️ 

Funds from the events held will help support some health and well being awareness events at the centre and will also support Blood Pressure UK.

Jeff's wife, Margaret, commented; We cannot thank enough GLL and ETL members and staff for all their hard work to make the day a success. We will be forever grateful for the people who gave up their time to attend. Donations and payments for the classes will go toward a local awareness programme and Blood Pressure UK, the only charity in the UK to focus on Blood Pressure support.

Margaret also commented that GLL provides a great online Health check and encourages everyone to complete it here   

Additionally, a big thank you for the following support provided to make these events a success;

GLL - Providing access to the facility and use of the pool and fitness studio as well as instructors

ETL - Provided fitness instructors who delivered classes throughout the day

Al's Kitchen - For providing food for volunteers and instructors for the event