Kevin Tyler

UK Athletics – Head of Coaching and Development

“Longden’s work with two of Great Britain’s most successful athletes will forever be regarded as one of the greatest coaching achievements of all time.”
“The coaching community has lost a true great but his achievements in guiding athletes to reach their full potential will act as an inspiration.”

Doug Turner

Former Athlete

I had the privilege of having Bruce as my chaperone for the 200m at the 1997 World Indoors in Paris. We shared many a joke, or a laugh, but he always kept me focused on the job. He was a true professional of the sport, a gentleman with a unique skill that centred around the athletes – others could learn from this! You will be missed Bruce x

Lucy Gill

Cambridge University 2001 – 2002

He was such a wonderful man and someone i will always remember clearly and fondly. I was so grateful for the time he spared to work with us. I find myself recalling many of his fabulous stories quite often, particularly during the recent Olympics.

Jennifer Stoute

Former Athlete

Sorry to hear about Bruce, I am totally at a loss for words. I always thought he would outlive us all with his canning personality and his zest for life. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. I can still hear him now ‘Jennifer shut up moaning and get on with it’.

Trevor Day

Australia

I was one of many who was influenced and inspired by Bruce when he was a teacher at King’s School Grantham in the 60’s.
47 years later I can still clearly remember Bruce – the wisecracking, pushy guy who was a teacher, a coach and also a friend. He really knew how to get the best out of people and we kept in touch until the mid 70’s. I contacted him again about 5 years ago and it was great to catch up and exchange news. I’m now 62 and live in Australia but I’ll never forget Bruce.

Dame Kelly Holmes

Olympic Champion

I would like to send my condolences but also my heartfelt thanks for all the work he has done in athletics helping and inspiring athletes.

David Rice

Athletics Coach at The Hawcs

“I must have been one of the luckiest coaches in the UK, not only did I work for Bruce through his time as the National Coach for North of the Thames, after that he continued to be my mentor and a friend. I cannot begin to describe how much I learnt from him. I always felt that UK:Athletics never fully appreciated his coaching abilities and experience, or his ability and depth of knowledge to educate coaches. He will be badly missed by the sport and the many people whose lives he touched.”

Eric Brees

Enfield and Haringey AC, UK

“My Mentor, The Master.”