Costa Blanca Mountain Walkers

JOHN HEMMONS CHAIRMAN 1998 – 2000

We have received the sad news of the death of John Hemmons on 14 December 2011.

John returned to the UK some years ago owing to health problems. Those who knew him and walked regularly with him remember him as a person of great courtesy and thoughtfulness. He was a “gentleman” of the old school.

Mary Gowland who knew him well records a couple of her memories:

“I would show up for a tough or scary walk if John was leading it because I had complete confidence in him and I knew he would be patient with my slow pace. I remember that my friend George Goddard hurt himself on a recce that went seriously off piste. His two companions were Bob Stansfield and John Hemmons. (They were looking for “Mary's route” but had neglected to invite me along to show it to them) George's knee was pretty badly hurt. He remarked afterwards:

'I never knew John Hemmons very well before this happened. Now I know there
isn't a better person to have with you when you are in trouble'

He is remembered by many as an exceedingly straight and honest person, and was also known to tell a silly story on himself with relish.”

The Costa Blanca Mountain Walkers recognise him as a excellent leader and a good companion to be remembered with fondness.