Community
2 October, 2025
In memory
TWO of Hexham’s most respected sporting identities will be honoured after council approved plans to replace a memorial plaque.
Councillors made the decision at last week’s Ordinary Meeting of Council to replace a commemorative plaque, located at the Hexham Recreation Reserve, which had been dedicated to club stalwart David John Wynd – who died in a tragic drowning incident in 1983.
Residents contacted mayor councillor Karen Foster with a request for permission to replace the plaque after unknown parties had removed it.
The request was in line with council’s adopted Plaques and Memorial Policy as the pre-manufacture of the plaque was slightly larger than council’s size guidelines.
With the request having to come before council, those involved sought to have fellow club legend Geoff ‘Tex’ Stafford memorialised alongside Mr Wynd on the new plaque.
Mr Stafford, who died suddenly in 2024, had been president of the football club at the same time Mr Wynd was secretary.
As the two had made an enormous contribution to sporting clubs and community organisations in the district, a decision was made to replace the missing plaque with a new one which honours the memory of both stalwarts.
The recommendation to approve the request was moved by councillor Myra Murrihy, who said the decision was a no-brainer for councillors.
“The plaque was there, it was removed and I think it’s only fitting it goes back up,” she said.
“It’s what the community wants.
“I am happy to support it.”
Councillor Lisa Ryan, as seconder, said the community had shown a clear desire to memorialise two deserving contributors to the former club.
“This recognises local heritage and local leaders,” she said.
“It also responds to a community request.”
Cr Foster praised the community for its efforts to ensure both men would be memorialised.
“I’d like to congratulate the community for taking the initiative to do this,” she said.
“I think it’s great, so well done to them.”
The motion was carried with unanimous support.