Peter Woodward, known to the world as Woody, has passed away peacefully at the age of 80, writes Andy Woodward.
A fixture of the Essex hockey scene for most of his life, he both managed the Essex County Hockey team before becoming the President of Essex Hockey Association.
He finished his career as manager of the Chelmsford team during the formative years of the National Hockey League and will be remembered by many around the country.
He started his career at Wickford HC, before joining the legendary Romford team of the 70’s. He spent many happy years at Brentwood, who were leaders in the early veterans hockey scene, with many a breakfast party held before an away match.
He finally settled at Chelmsford where he ultimately stepped into his managerial role.
Peter ran the formidable Essex “Angels” touring side and his endeavours in supporting the Jersey Hockey Easter Festival earned him the first honorary life membership for a non-resident of the island.
The Angels also supported the England (maybe British) teams at both the 1990 World Hockey Cup in Lahore, Pakistan and at the 1994 World Cup in Sydney.
A life-long old school centre forward, his dive in the D was legendary.
He is survived by his wife Pat, and sons Andrew, who played most of his hockey at Beckenham and son Iain, who played for many years at Southgate, before moving to Ireland.
