TRIBUTES are being paid to Rose Scovell who has died two weeks to the day after her husband, Ray.

An Isle of Wight sports legend, Ray died on January 19 after testing positive for coronavirus.

His wife Rose ­— also a key figure in Island athletics ­— died on Tuesday, February 2, at St Mary's Hospital.

It would have been their golden wedding anniversary at the weekend, where the pair would have celebrated 50 years together.

A fundraiser has been launched to support Isle of Wight organisations for young people in memory of Ray.

Known as Mr Athletics, Ray's passion was supporting youth on the Island, and his family wishes to continue his legacy.

To make a donation, click here.

The money raised will be divided between charities close to his heart.

Athletics coach, Nick Groocock said: "It is with a heavy heart that once again I am the bearer of very sad news.

"On Tuesday, Rose Scovell passed away at St Mary's, two weeks to the day after we lost Ray.

"Once again, I am compelled to write about the contribution she made toward our club and the Isle of Wight Athletics Community.

"We all know how much Ray did because he was always there alongside us all, but behind the scenes Rose was always there beside him helping and supporting everything he did for us.

"Rose was for a time on the IWAC Committee acting as Minutes Secretary as well as dealing with Club Membership.

"Those of us who have been around the club long enough will remember the open meetings and Isle of Wight Championships that were held each year.

"Rose was the ever-present, writing up results throughout the day ­— one of those essential jobs that means the joys of the days performances are passed by to ensure that eagerly waiting athletes, coaches and parents are kept happy.

"Together each week Ray and Rose would count and bank the gate money.

"The front room at Cross Street was often taken over with paperwork for the next project or when track meetings and awards night were imminent the room would be full of medals and trophies having their centres and name plates applied.

"When Park Run arrived new tasks and support was needed and the ever willing Rose ensured that the Marshall bibs and anything else that needed washing was ready from one week to the next.

"It would have been their Golden Wedding anniversary this weekend, celebrating their 50 years together as man and wife.

"They had grown up together on Avenue Road in Sandown and had known each other for seventy years.

"Rose wrote in her obituary in last week's County Press 'Always meant to be together'.

"I'm sure everyone will join me in thinking of Claire, Simon and Steve at this very sad time."