THE DAUGHTER of a popular running club co-founder has spoken of their pride following a special event in memory of her dad. 

Bob Bell, who died aged 76 after a short stay in hospital, was one of the founders and the first chair of the Hogweed Trotters running club, based in Chipping Sodbury.

He died on Friday, June 9 at home with his brother and daughter by his side.

Bob started running club in 2000 with a friend, brother and their wives, from the kitchen of his family home.

Under his chairmanship the club grew to more than 250 members within five years.

As well as this, he volunteered regularly as a marshal at the Chipping Sodbury Parkrun.

A corner of the parkrun, Bob’s rock, is named after him after he marshalled there many times. 

His daughter, Rebecca, has spoken of her pride as members of the Hogweed Trotters turned out on Sunday for a special run in his memory. 

There were around 100 runners, walkers and cyclists who turned out for different laps of the run, including Bob's youngest nephew who is 17. 

Rebecca said: "I am so immensely proud of the Hogweed Trotters (past present and future) and all who turned out to pay tribute to my dad on Sunday.

"It was organised impeccably.

"To hear and feel so much love and respect for him was truly heartwarming and brought a tear to my eye.

Gazette Series: Hogweed Trotters run in memory of founder Bob Bell who recently died

"Thank you to the Hogweeds for organising and planning dad's favourite route, it truly was a fitting tribute.

"There are so many acknowledgements to make to so many family and friends far and wide. 

"A special thanks must go to the Beaufort Arms for accommodating us all. 

"I do hope that this could possibly be an annual event in honour of dad."