Bolton: Tribute to Debbie Hales of the Bolton United Harriers

Debbie Hales died on August 29 after being diagnosed with cancer.

Bolton United Harriers and the family have paid tribute to a person who 'would put others before herself'.

As well as being described as a inspirational mum by her five children – Michael, Jason, Martin, Joanne and Matthew - Debbie was known for her work with Bolton United Harriers and the RNLI in Blackpool, a charity close to her heart.

Debbie lost her husband and the children’s father in a jet ski accident in 2003.

Ian and Debbie Hales at Bolton United Harriers

The RNLI were called and despite the odds, Debbie survived the accident and ever since has become a huge supporter of the charity and kept in touch with the person who save her life.

Michael said:  “She was one of these people that just had relentless energy and we’ve all got that trait.

“She was full of energy, full of life she’s looked after other people, put other people before herself.

“She was a character.”

“She lost my dad 19 and a half years ago in that accident, when she nearly died, they knew each other from primary school.”

“It was the RNLI that rescued my mum and dad, it was their efforts that went above and beyond, my mum managed to live against all odds.

“She went back to thank the crew for doing all they could for my dad and for saving her life. She started fundraising for them and would go up every week.

“The RNLI does not receive Government funding.”

The flag at the RNLI station at Blackpool was lowered to half mast following the news Debbie had died.

Michael added: “I think she just felt like she had to give something back to the RNLI.

"Colin, the guy that saved my mum, went from Blackpool over to Bolton hospital to see my mum, just to pay his respects. He’s the one that pulled her out of the water 19 years ago.

“To have that bond, and they’re doing a job, an unpaid job, it’s quite humbling really and the half-mast flag was quite poignant, a very fitting tribute to her.

“She’s raised tens of thousands of pounds over the years.”

Debbie with the RNLI crew

Debbie was well-known in Bolton for her work with running club the Harriers, which she continued after her husband died.

Michael said: “They both did a lot for Bolton Harriers, Stuart Stokes got to the Olympics.

“My mum and dad were just devoted to Bolton Harriers and helping young athletes perform to the best and become the best.

“She did many things and is just known for always being there for people and just trying to support in whatever way she can, they both were.

“We just said if there is an afterlife, at least she’s back with my dad now.”

Shaun O’Donnell, a committee member at Bolton Harriers, also paid tribute to Debbie.

He said: “Those privileged to have known Debbie will never forget her bubbly smile, her fun, the twinkle in her eye and boundless energy.

“She embodied the spirit of community feeling at the club where friends in need were never alone. The Hales’ clan would descend to help in the event of a flood or just to lay a new laminate floor, nothing was too much.

“With her beloved husband Ian, the dynamic duo were monumental in the development of hundreds if not thousands of young athletes lives’ in the club.

“Every club event from serving vimto in the club-house at the end of a cold nights training to organising trips to Paderborn or Lille were spearheaded by this wonderful couple.

“Debbie , you have a special place in our hearts and all those past and present in Bolton Harriers that you have touched with your love and devotion. God Bless.”