Derrick Lovell, who dedicated his life to archery, significantly impacting the sport across local, national, and international levels, has died leading to tributes from across the archery community.
In his early days in the sport, Derrick was active in his county of Kent before he embarked on the judge journey that most people know him from. He achieved National Judge status in 1986 and became an International Judge in 1993, officiating at major events like the Sydney Olympics in 2000 where he was Chair of Judges, numerous World Championships and World Games. But his main love was for field archery and it is here that he was most well-known.
Derrick served as President of Archery GB and was Chair of the World Archery Field and 3D Committee and on the Constitution and Rules Committee.
In 2011 he was awarded an MBE for services to archery in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.
Graham Potts, current President of Archery GB, said: "Derrick's unselfish contribution to archery, a sport he loved and enjoyed with great passion, was huge, and touched many people, including myself, as he was a great mentor to me through my judging career, particularly at international level.
"His passion and enthusiasm for the sport was infectious, and he was always a joy to be with, sharing many stories and passing on his wide knowledge of archery for others to benefit from. Every role Derrick undertook from club through to international level he did with the same determination and effort to ensure it was always for the best for archery.
"The benefit of his wisdom and experience and his company will be sorely missed by all of us, and our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Trish and the family at this difficult time."
Mark Briegal, Chair of Archery GB said: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Derrick Lovell, whose lifelong dedication to Archery GB shaped so much of who we are today. Derrick was a passionate supporter and respected member of AGB and we were honoured to have him as our president. His vision and generosity have left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire all of us on our archery journeys. Our thoughts are with Trish and his family and many friends."
International Judge Hannah Brown said "Derrick was a pillar of the archery world, a man whose passion has helped shape the sport we love. He was a colleague, a mentor, and a friend to many. He will be missed greatly by the whole archery community."
Funeral details will be shared once they are known. Derrick's family has asked for no flowers, but for donations to a charity that he held close to his heart, the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance.
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