Richard Middleton who played for Cheam in the 1970s and 1980s has sadly passed away at the age of 72. He was born in the Portsmouth area, went to school there and was a lifelong supporter of Portsmouth FC. He was already a talented hockey player and formed part of the Hampshire schools set up. He started living in our area in 1968 when he was studying to become a Chartered Surveyor and started playing hockey for Cheam in 1970. At that time a number of young talented players joined the Club and a new team called the Hunters, led by Wallis Hunt, was formed to bring them on with a view to them playing in the senior teams later on. Richard settled in to become a formidable full back and became established in the 2nd XI. In 1975 his work took him to Oman and he was there until 1978 when he returned to live in Lower Kingswood and to his playing career at Cheam again playing for the 2nd XI where he later became Captain. Towards the end of his playing days he played for the Veterans XI largely at centre half because of the excess of older men all wanting to play full back. Richard along with many of the original Hunters formed the basis of the Easter tour to Bournemouth which formed a very enjoyable end to the season for many years. He also took part in 6s tournaments and there was a memorable incident at Tunbridge Wells where Richard, having moved into unaccustomed upfield territory but still with a distinct advantage was comfortably caught by a fast moving opposition forward when chasing a through ball. Speed was not Richard’s main strength. He retired from hockey in 1988. He joined Banstead Downs Golf Club where he was held in high esteem having been Captain in 2000 and later President. He will be remembered as a loving husband and father as well as a staunch supporter of Cheam Hockey Club and loyal friend.