Ice hockey club confirm closure

Romford Junior Ice Hockey Club has officially announced that they have folded.

Although seemingly inevitable since the closure of Romford Ice Rink in April, parents and committee members had not given up hope of finding a temporary home, while awaiting the completion of a new rink in Romford.

Currently at the planning stage, a new town centre facility is set for completion in 2015 and at the time of dissolving, all Romford teams play in the top divisions of their age groups.

Romford youngsters have represented regional and national teams, but must now find new clubs for the interim period, or give up the sport for the time being.

In a statement the club’s committee said: “It is with regret that our highly successful ice hockey club will no longer operate.

“Unfortunately Romford Junior Ice Hockey Club has not managed to secure a temporary ice rink suitable for ice hockey, or enough ice time at neighbouring rinks.

“Some players have now given up the sport and others have moved to Chelmsford, Slough, Guildford, Haringey and Lea Valley.

“We would like to thank the parents, coaches and children involved in the club for their commitment over the last few years and wish them luck at their new clubs.

“After 25 years, both junior and adult hockey will no longer be part of Romford which is a tragedy and those who made the decision to close the rink without adequate continuity of provision will pay the price when the new facility opens without a fully subscribed and functioning club.”

Junior head coach Alan Blyth, who has been involved with the club on a junior and senior level for many years, made an emotional farewell statement, adding: “I still find it hard to believe that it’s gone. RVW, R.I.P. The rink may be gone but the club lives on inside our hearts.

“It has been a great few years as head coach. I would not lie by saying I have loved every minute of it, but the good times by far outweigh the bad.

“I would like to thank Allison Taylor and Ben Pitchley for giving me the chance to take on the role all those years ago. Also thank you to Erskine Douglas, Brian Biddulph and Lenny Cole for the guidance along the way.

“To all the players I have worked with over the years, thank you for your hard work and dedication. You have been a true credit. I’m proud of each and every one of you for different reasons.

“No matter where you end up you will always be Romford boys (and girls). For the parents, you have kept me on my toes, even though some of you aren’t happy unless you’re moaning, I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way!

“Once again I would like to thank everyone that has supported me throughout my journey and given me the trust to coach your children.

“I also want to say a huge thank you to my supportive and patient wife who has had to put up with me and the journeys all over the country week in and week out. Gold and Blue always.”