Keith Yates’ widow Anne will be coming to Durham on Thursday June 27th in order to scatter Keith’s ashes.

Keith died at the age of 79 on January 1st 2019. Although moving away from the area in the 1960s after a successful competitive career as a cox with Durham Amateur Rowing Club he continued to be a lifelong supporter of the Regatta, returning each year for over 40 years as its senior commentator.

He was an honorary Vice President of Durham Regatta.

Speaking of plans to scatter Keith’s ashes Durham ARC President and Keith’s former crewmate Ian Shepherd explained –

“This will be done at 11am in the river at the Regatta start where the ashes of his great friend Michael Wardman were spread.

As you may know Keith was a keen member of the Club. He coxed the first crew from 1958 to 1962 to 5 wins in the Grand at Durham Regatta as well as numerous other events throughout the north.

He went on to commentate at the Regatta regularly until last year and it was very sad that this year the Regatta was cancelled when it was dedicated to Keith as a mark of respect and appreciation of his work.”

Keith donated the Wardman Yates Challenge Cup to the Regatta in memory of his friend and fellow cox Michael Wardman.

Following Keith’s death Anne Yates said, “Keith’s beloved Durham Regatta will continue, but without his lovely voice and the information that he so loved to share with members of the public.”

Tea and refreshments will be served in the Clubhouse after the ceremony on June 27th. Anyone who knew Keith is invited to attend.

Photo by The Northern Echo of Keith celebrating 60 years of involvement with Durham Regatta in 2013