It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of one of our amazing club members, Ben Burton, after an 18-month battle with a brain tumour.

Ben was an incredible person, a true force of nature, a fab hockey player, a father to two beautiful girls, and an amazing husband to the wonderful Debbie.

He contributed in many ways to the club over the years, numerous hockey tours, wolf runs, junior hockey coaching, a seasoned player and midlands master.

Ben had been with the club for a number of years, and it is because of his wonderful wife that our women's section exists. We have a lot to be thankful for, the work and dedication they have both shown to the club pre- and post-merger.

With the blessing of the family, the club will hold a minute's applause before all games on the weekend of the 5th / 6th of November.

Men's club captain Aaron Nagra "First being introduced to Ben through his best friends Andrew Pell and Adam Bellerby, it was clear how much love, time and energy Ben had for his friends and family. Always enthusiastic on nights out or ‘quiet’ drinks in the clubhouse, Ben’s humour was infectious and created a great atmosphere. On the pitch, Ben gave everything, putting his body on the line in every challenge and making sure the opposition felt his presence too! The loss of Ben to his family, friends and to the club is huge, however, the memories and many stories of Ben will go on and bring a smile to our faces as we think back at how fortunate we all were to know someone of his calibre."

Club member Sarah Gambling "I was lucky enough to have known Ben for 20+ years, he and his wife Debs welcomed me into the hockey club with open arms. He was a kind and caring man with a real zest for life, mischievous at times and a little bit silly, that’s probably why we got on so well".