In Memory of Tony Horne

The GMA is sad to report the passing of long-time friend of the association, Tony Horne.

Tony, known to many as the “gentle giant” was a life-long member of the GMA and a strong supporter and volunteer throughout his career. 

He had been an invaluable member of the GMA Welsh Branch since 1972 and was more recently a committed member of the SALTEX operations team. 

According to his long-term friend, SALTEX teammate and fellow GMA Welsh Branch member, [University of South Wales’ grounds manager] Les Gibbs, Tony started his career working for Bill Hardiman at the former Cardiff Arms Park Stadium. He became grounds manager after Bill retired and oversaw the pitch rebuild at the [new] Millennium Stadium. He moved to greenkeeping at Pyle Kenfig Golf Course before joining his son-in-law’s Inspcapes contractor business, where he helped with pitch renovations and maintenance, before returning to a greenkeeping role at St Athan Golf Course in Glamorgan. 

On retirement, Tony used his extensive industry-experience as an examiner for the GMA national practical and technical certificate courses. He was also appointed chair of the GMA Welsh Branch. 

“Tony was highly respected within the industry,” Les says. “He was big in stature and had a big heart too. He always had time for people and will be very sadly missed.”

SALTEX operations manager Derek Walder agrees: “Tony was a kind man and always happy to help exhibitors and visitors at the show. The operations team will miss him very much.”