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Thursday, February 26, 2009

Alex Reid Millar, IOG National Chairman

Alex Millar, National Chairman of the Institute of Groundsmanship, passed away on February 17 at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford. He was 67.

A revered grounds care professional, Alex’s industry-wide reputation began at Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedfordshire before moving back to Scotland to join Glasgow City Council. He moved to Milton Keynes in 1989 and joined Milton Keynes Council as Client Officer in the Parks and Open Spaces Department.

An avid Rangers FC supporter, Alex was a fervent advocate of the IOG and its aims, and throughout his life he worked tirelessly for the industry as a whole as well as the IOG. Among his many accolades, Alex helped launch the IOG Milton Keynes Branch in the 1980s, was a member of the Football League Playing Surfaces Committee and judged the annual Groundsman of the Year Award. He was also a member of the IOG Board (and its forerunner, the National Executive Committee) plus had a spell as IOG Treasurer and IOG National Chairman in 1991-1993, in addition to holding his current post as IOG National Chairman since 2002.

Among the many words of sympathy, Geoff Webb, IOG Chief Executive, commented: “Each of us will hold personal feelings towards Alex, and each of us will be affected by his passing. Alex was someone who had a great perception and understanding of others; he was a person with immense knowledge and he was highly respected throughout the industry.

“I certainly will miss his company and his sense of intellect, guidance, humour and determination, as well as his vision that has been the catalyst for so much change at the IOG.

“If ever there was a true ‘unsung hero’ and a champion for the industry, Alex had the perfect CV. I pay tribute to all that he has achieved over so many years of dedicated service to the IOG.”

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