Readers have paid their respects to a chairman and long-standing member of Watford Harriers Athletics Club who passed away.

Seymour Arthur Izzard died aged 89 after an impressive lifetime of smashing cross country marathons and inspiring younger athletes at the Woodside Stadium.

He joined the Watford Harriers in 1948, which then kickstarted a series of achievements, ranging from representing the Royal Signals in cross country races in Catterick and Germany and becoming the Herts County Vets 10-mile and 20-mile road champion.

Watford Observer: Seymour Arthur IzzardSeymour Arthur Izzard

We asked for your tributes and memories of Mr Izzard, here is what was said:

Community answers

Book of Condolence: Seymour Arthur Izzard

"Did you know Mr Izzard? Leave your best wishes and memories of the former Watford Harriers chairman here."

We asked for your responses - this is what you sent.

From Ray Mckenna

What were your best memories of Mr Izzard?Always smiling and happy, he was the face of Watford Harriers, I had known him since 1990, athletics and the world has lost a true gentleman and athlete and friend.

How would you describe Mr Izzard?The happiest man I have ever known, he would bring a smile to your face

From Marilyn Hreen

What were your best memories of Mr Izzard?My memory is meeting Seymour through a very good friend Claire Izzard. He was always happy , cheerful , full of life and loved his family dearly as did Lily his wife . We had fun evenings at family gatherings and he supported us at Cassiobury Park Race for life charity run/ walk.

How would you describe Mr Izzard?Smiley, warm and a fun lively Character to be around. He lit up a room. He will be sadly missed by all .

From Annie gurney

What were your best memories of Mr Izzard?Hi Seymour izzard what a lovely man I work at tesco watford he used come in on Thursday morning and his wife lilly and make everyone laugh and joke the air was very good laugh at them what a wonderful family rest in peace Seymour and lilly thankyou entering me at checkout Annie gurney

How would you describe Mr Izzard?

From Jonnie Dean Wray

What were your best memories of Mr Izzard?My fondest memory of Seymour is the white sweater that Lilly had knitted for him. I said what a nice jumper and he said I’ll get Lilly to make you one which she did. He and Lilly also held a wonderful tea and sandwiches( and alcohol) get together after I think flit was the Bushey 10k round there house nothing was any bother to them they just made you welcome.

How would you describe Mr Izzard?Warm and friendly and a good laugh.

From Mark Izzard

What were your best memories of Mr Izzard?In his later years Dad seemed to want to apologise for not being around more when he was concentrating on his running career. I told him I never thought he wasn’t around and have fond memories of my childhood with him and he was always there for me and my children. He will be much missed.

How would you describe Mr Izzard?A larger than life local character

From Emma Edwards

What were your best memories of Mr Izzard?I used to attend the Harriers Quiz nights and Seymour was the star of the show as quizmaster. Funny and charismatic. He made the night.

How would you describe Mr Izzard?One in a million

From Community contributor

What were your best memories of Mr Izzard?A lovely beautiful human being worked at BT and came in contact him often Also involved with Watford Harriers up to 8 years back a real Gentleman RIP

How would you describe Mr Izzard?

From Angela Adcock

What were your best memories of Mr Izzard?lovely smile, generous support and great encouragement on the cross country scene

How would you describe Mr Izzard?A true gentlemen

From Adrian Stewart

What were your best memories of Mr Izzard?I was a lad when I joined Watford Harriers aged 11 in 1970 and Seymour was one of the clubs influential seniors. I recall many races where he would turn up if not to compete himself but to cheer other club members on. An inspirational character with a big heart. RIP Seymour

How would you describe Mr Izzard?Simply a lovely man

From Malcolm Anthony Meerabux

What were your best memories of Mr Izzard?His zest for life and always a welcoming smile to all he met and the lovely stories of races he led always told with a great sense of humour.

How would you describe Mr Izzard?A first class respectful gentleman who always looked on the bright side of life.