Sports pavilion in Victoria Park is renamed after dedicated worker

Ron Cain sadly died in July this year. Picture credit: Tower Hamlets Council. (Image: © Rehan Jamil)

The ‘Ron Cain Sports Pavilion’ is a lasting tribute to Ron Cain, known as Ronnie to his friends and colleagues, who started working in Victoria Park as a keeper in 1977.

The popular employee worked his way up through the ranks before eventually becoming the park’s manager.

His work colleagues came up with the idea of naming the pavilion after him to ensure his name lived on in Victoria Park in the future.

On Wednesday Ron’s family joined Tower Hamlets mayor John Biggs at the official opening of the pavilion.

Left to right: Tracey Cain, Pam Cain and Mayor John Biggs. Picture credit: Tower Hamlets Council. (Image: © Rehan Jamil)

Mayor Biggs said: “I was delighted to join Ron’s family and to see so many of his former colleagues turn out. It was a real testament to how well thought of he was.

“Our biggest asset at the council is the people, like Ron, who work so hard every day to make Tower Hamlets such a fantastic place to live, work and visit.

“Around 9 million people come to Victoria Park each year, making it one of the most popular parks in London and one of the most treasured venues in Tower Hamlets.

“Its success would not be possible if it wasn’t for the efforts of the council team who go the extra mile to make every visit such a great experience.

“Ron was a member and a leader of that team for many years and it is fitting that his contribution is being recognised in this way.”

Cllr Abdul Mukit MBE, cabinet member for culture and youth, added: “The pavilion will be used by thousands of people and I am pleased that, moving forward, it will carry Ron Cain’s name.”

The revamp of the pavilion includes the installation of a new extension, modern changing facilities and new communal space.

It was delivered in partnership with the London Marathon Charitable Trust.