Warriors Commercial Partners have paid tribute to President Cecil Duckworth CBE, who passed away last weekend aged 83.
Adam Hewitt, Managing Director of Adam Hewitt Ltd, said:
“I am very sad to hear the news about Cecil who was a true Gentleman.
“I only had the pleasure of meeting him a few times but he always had time to stop and talk it was clear of his passion for the Warriors, Acorns charity and the Duckworth Worcestershire Trust.
“It’s not often you meet visionaries that are so humble and caring thoughts to his family he will be sadly missed but never forgotten.”
Craig Barry, Sales Development Manager of Greene King Brewing and Brands , said:
“My deepest sympathies go out to the Duckworth family at this very sad time. I have had the pleasure of knowing this amazing man for a number of years and what he has done for the club and community is truly remarkable. Cecilwill be hugely missed by everyone who knew him.”
Neil Williams, UK Pro Club Manager of O’Neills Irish International Sports Company Ltd, said:
“We are very sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved President, Cecil Duckworth. His key role in transforming the club into a Premiership side while Chairman, as well as funding the development of the Sixways Stadium which is now one of the most renowned rugby grounds, cannot be understated
“Mr. Duckworth’s vision and character earned him the respect of many within rugby circles and we wish to pay tribute to such a champion of his sport. He will be sorely missed however his legacy will undoubtedly live on for future generations.
“On behalf of O’Neills, we offer our condolences to his family and friends and everyone associated with Worcester Warriors family including current and former players, officials and supporters who mourn the passing of such a pivotal figure within the club.”
Richard Lane, Managing Director of EBC Group, said:
“Cecil was a humble, gracious, modest, and a genuine man, he had great interest in others and always had a compliment to give.
“I will always remember and be grateful to him for the way he personally welcomed me into the club and thanked EBC Group for our continued support.
“Worcester Warriors have benefited greatly from his vision and passion. His drive and enthusiasm was infectious, achieving Premiership status was one of his many lifetime achievements.
“He was a tremendous ambassador for both Warriors and Worcestershire. However, his legacy extends beyond his involvement in sport and his charity foundation will leave a lasting impact to many lives.”
Ed Dunn, Chairman of Three Pears Brands, said.
“Farewell Mr Worcester. Condolences to the Duckworth family and to the many, many friends Cecil made over the years.
“His business and rugby legacy is immense. I first met Cecil as a supporter and have been a club sponsor for over 20 years after being inspired by his vision for the club.”
Steve Everitt, Group Managing Director of Exol Lubricants, said:
“Everyone at Exol joins in this expression of deep sympathy. We are sorry for the loss of Cecil Duckworth, for his devotion to Worcester Warriors and dedication to his family. He will be greatly missed by all those who had pleasure of knowing him.”
Martin Head, Director of A&H Construction, said:
“Sadly, I only met Cecil on a few occasions, however I am obviously very aware of what he has achieved over the years, even going back as far as when I was playing. What a legacy he has left, RIP a legend and Warrior.”
Gary Cox, Group Managing Director of Sovereign Business Solutions, said:
“When I captained Moseley during the 1980s we’d send our second team over to play in the annual Worcester Floodlit Cup and would win the trophy more often than not.
“Then came Cecil Duckworth! As we know he poured millions of pounds into Warriors and transformed it single-handedly into the Premiership giant it is today.
“A true icon of Midlands rugby, he has put Worcester on the sporting map and brought untold prosperity to the area as a whole.
“I’m sure I speak for all the Warriors supporters when I express what a huge debt of gratitude, we owe to this very generous and forward thinking ‘rugby man’. COYW…Welcome to the Duckworth Stadium?”
Muff Murfin, Station Director of Youthcomm Radio, said:
“My sincere condolences to Beatrice and family. I will never forget all the memories over many years, both personally and with Warriors. Thank you Cecil. RIP.”
Nick Tisdale, Director of Rugby of Malvern College, said:
“Cecil was a true gentleman, down to earth and an inspiration to all he came into contact with. It always amazed me how he remembered all of the people/players that worked under him over the years and he always found time to catch up with and show interest in his ex-players and staff.
“Cecil gave me, and many of my team mates, an incredible opportunity in 1997 as we were all members of his first squad of professional players and I am sure that I am not alone in being eternally grateful for the incredible opportunity Cecil gave us.
“Some of my fondest memories are playing at Worcester, these memories wouldn’t have been possible without Cecil’s generosity and vision. He will be sadly missed but his legacy will live on. RIP Cecil.”