Gary Deards – 1966-2014

Level Playing Field has received many kind tributes for Gary from across the sports and disability sectors in the last week and we feel sure that he would be overwhelmed by the messages we have received.

Gary worked tirelessly for many years to help improve access for disabled sports fans and there has been an outpouring of respect and recognition for Gary’s deep level of access knowledge and his hard work and determination to see equality and inclusion at all sporting venues.

Gary’s family, friends and colleagues have taken much comfort from these tributes.

A number of you have asked about paying your respects to Gary and, at the family’s request, we can now confirm the funeral arrangements and their wishes for donations.

Anyone wishing to attend will be very welcome and the funeral and reception venues are fully accessible.

Please can we ask that you drop a brief note to LPF at info@levelplayingfield.org.uk if you are planning to attend the funeral and / or the reception so that we can keep the family informed of the numbers expected.

Funeral arrangements

The funeral will take place on Thursday 10th April at 15.15 in the South Chapel at Reading Crematorium, All Hallows Road (off the A4155 Henley Road), Caversham, RG4 5LP. For more information about the venue, please link here. You can download a map by clicking here.

Funeral reception

A reception will be held after the funeral at Tilehurst Royal British Legion, Downing Road, Tilehurst, Reading Berkshire RG31 5BB. For more information about the venue, please link here. You can download a map by clicking here.

Donations – Remembering Gary

The family has requested that flower tributes will be from the immediate family only. Instead, all donations should be made to Level Playing Field. You can make your donation via the Level Playing Field website or by following this link.

Please do leave a personal tribute with your kind donation and LPF will share these tributes with Gaz’s family. Thank you.

Please do call LPF on 01244 893584 or send an email to info@levelplayingfield.org.uk if you require assistance with directions or in making a donation to LPF.

For a dear friend and colleague – we will miss you