Shropshire village stalwart and talented goalkeeper dies aged 94
An ever-present member of a village community has died, aged 94.
Frederick Morris, better known as Fred, ran the Hanwood village garage for years, as well as dedicating decades of his life serving the community on various committees and organisations.
He also enjoyed a distinguished amateur football career as a goalkeeper, including being on the books of Shrewsbury Town in the 1940s, and playing for Hanwood Welfare in the Welsh Amateur Cup Final of 1948/49 in front of around 7,000 spectators at Wrexham’s Racecourse Ground.
He passed away peacefully at his home in Copthorne on May 8.
His son Christopher said: “Dad was always doing his bit for the community no matter where he lived, but most definitely in Hanwood.
“This included working alongside his father in the Smithy in the village and running the petrol station and agricultural and motor engineering workshop from the early 1950s until he sold the business and retired in 1987, when he spent more time golfing and took up bowling with his beloved wife, Bertha.
“As well as running the business, Dad also served as chairman of Hanwood Parish Council and Hanwood Village Hall, as well as being president of Hanwood United Football Club and Hanwood Bowling Club, among other committees and organisations.
“He was even invited, along with my mum, to a garden party at Buckingham Palace in 1976 for his service to the community.
“Dad was also a very good amateur footballer in his day and, although his interest in the sport skipped a generation, he was thrilled when my son, Sam, followed in his footsteps and starting playing in goal.
“So much so, he even presented Sam with his runners-up trophy from the 1948-49 Welsh Amateur Cup Final last Christmas.”
Fred leaves his son, Christopher, daughter-in-law Helen, grandchildren Jemma, Sam and Alice, and great-grandchildren Meera and Vaid, who live in Australia following Jemma’s emigration more than a decade ago.
Christopher added: “Dad was so proud of all his family – especially the grandchildren. He loved seeing them all grow up and do their own thing.
“He was delighted whenever he heard stories of Jemma’s growing family in Australia and loved attending Alice’s musical performances while at university in Nottingham.
“We will all miss him dearly.”
A private family funeral will take place in the next week.
