Tuesday 5th May 2026.
To all Members of H&DAA.
It is with the greatest regret and sadness that we have to announce the sudden and unexpected death of our long-standing Chairman Chris James, who passed away at home on Thursday 30th April 2026. Our sincere condolences go out to his wife Jen (Jennifer), son Jonathon and to the rest of his family and friends.
Chris initially spent 5 years as a member of the GPC before being elected as Chairman, a position he has held for the last 20 years. His passion was all about running a successful fishery/club which he was dedicated to and has achieved. As a youngster, Chris started out working at Fred Perkins Tackle shop in Commercial Road Hereford and soon became an amazing angler, winning many trophies in the competitions he entered. He was a top-class angler in his day and was the man to try and beat. Away from fishing he was passionately involved with Motocross meetings and in his younger years, competed in various motorcross events. Chris was also a football fanatic and as a season ticket holder attended Edgar street to watch Hereford United/FC whenever he could. Chris had made many friends in all that he achieved and done in his life, and he will be deeply missed by many who met him. He was always respectful and helpful when dealing with matters and people he met and worked with. Rest in peace Chris you will not be forgotten, you will always be remembered for what you have done for H&DAA. Some people might even call you a legend.
At the request of the family and Chris himself, he will be having a pure cremation with family attendance only. There will be a celebration of Chris’ life on a date TBC so that all members will have the opportunity to attend. When this has been arranged a notification will be posted on the Association website once a date has been confirmed.
Moving forward the Association is in safe hands and discussions are being held to appoint a new chairman to steer the club forward. We will update you when a decision has been made. In the meantime, it is business as normal and the day-to-day running of the Association will continue as before. Members should still use the same telephone numbers in the rulebook to book a peg at the pools or Holme Lacy 4.
At this point in time our Vice Chairman Graham Matthews will be Acting Chairman and will be running the Association until a new Chairman is appointed. For any issues that need addressing, please contact a committee member or Graham. He can be contacted at gjmcraftycarper@hotmail.com
