Bob Rutherford
It is with deep sadness and regret that HERO-ERA have to announce the tragic death of Bob Rutherford (69) from Bristol, an experienced Senior Route Coordinator with the company, whilst conducting the final reconnoitre for the Classic Marathon event in Spain (July 4-9th 2021) 16th June 2021.
Bob died after a fall at 11.14 am near Vilarino de Conso, Northern Spain when he lost his footing.
The Emergency services pronounced him dead at the scene from his injuries. HERO-ERA Competition Director Guy Woodcock who was with Bob in Spain, as they were working together on the final route recce of the event, contacted Bob Rutherford’s immediate family and remained at the scene to coordinate with the Spanish emergency and police services.
Everyone at HERO-ERA is saddened at the loss of such a wonderful colleague and dear friend who will be missed terribly. He was so happy just to be back out on the road again, preparing a rally, when this awful accident happened. He was a warm, engaging and fun loving character, a professional adored by the rally community which makes his passing even harder to take. It is even harder for the family who have lost their beloved Bob.
Bob had taken on multiple roles over the years within HERO-ERA to assist in the running of events, whether it be acting as a travelling marshal with his partner Christine or taking on the big job of Clerk of the Course on some of our staple events. Both of Bob’s sons are also involved in numerous events having started marshalling as a three-man team in the early 2000’s. Whatever his role, Bob always threw cheerfulness and encouragement towards everyone he came into contact with.
As a competitor, Bob competed on multiple HERO-ERA events which he did with great enthusiasm and determination. Bob’s final rally victory was achieved just one year ago alongside Guy Woodcock on a stage rally. Bob had announced that he had retired from competitive stage events but was persuaded back into the navigator’s seat one final time, so the victory was very fitting alongside his colleague and friend.
Bob’s family have given HERO-ERA their support that the Classic Marathon should go ahead as planned on July 4th-9th and everyone is very confident that this is precisely what Bob would have wished for.
HERO-ERA wish to extend their deepest, heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of Bob Rutherford after his sad and tragic passing.
HERO-ERA will be publishing and distributing a full eulogy to Bob Rutherford once the family have had time to come to terms with this terrible tragedy.
