A keen sportsman known to many around Weston for his commitment to running, football, cycling and martial arts has died aged 82.

Raymond Chell was born in Birmingham in 1934, and in his early life was enrolled in the Welsh Guards. He served overseas in Egypt, and also was part of the ceremonial parade for the Queen’s coronation in 1953.

Raymond married Margaret in 1955, and moved to Weston in 1964 to work as a maintenance engineer at Westland Helicopters.

It was after his move to Somerset that Raymond developed a huge passion for sport, even though he had not taken up any sporting hobbies until his late 30s.

However, he played football for Langford Rovers into his mid-40s, and then became a judo black belt 1st dan.

He also became an enthusiastic member of Weston Road Runners, and his passion for running saw him successfully complete the London Marathon and the Paris Marathon three times each.

Even past the age of 70, Raymond remained active, completing the Three Peaks Challenge and walking the Highland Way. He was still an active runner up until his death on June 15.

His family said he will be ‘greatly missed’ by his wife of 61 years Margaret, daughter Kim and son Raymond, as well as his seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Raymond Chell’s funeral will take place at Weston Crematorim at 11.15am on Tuesday. All are welcome.