Peter Hatfield, owner of the sports shop at Middlesbrough, came to visit his friend Clifford Tate, who is currently a Resident at Highfield Care Home.
Peter, who is now retired, said that he has known Clifford for over 50 years. He used to shop for cricket whites for the Hutton Rugby cricket club, which Clifford ran. Clifford also ran the Darts league at the Crathorne Arms, which Peter had a great interest in. Peter’s son now runs the famous shop.
John Gatenby Hatfield (15 August 1893 – 30 March 1965) was an English competitive swimmer and water polo player who represented Great Britain internationally. Hatfield won three medals at the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden, and competed in three other Olympic Games.
Born in the town of Stokesley, North Yorkshire, he went on to found a sporting goods store in Middlesbrough which continues business today. The store sponsors local sports, including a football league. In recognition of this and other contributions to the community, Hatfield's son was awarded the Freedom of the Borough of Middlesbrough in 2009. Jack Hatfield served in the British Expeditionary Force in World War I.
HC-One Highfield Care Home Manager, Carolyn O’Lone said: “It was lovely to meet Peter and for him to while away the afternoon reminiscing with Clifford.”