Tony Linforth-Hall had been battling terminal blood cancer, Hodgkin-Lymphoma, for a few years before he passed away on Friday, July 14, 2023.
Despite his incurable illness, the dedicated Millwall supporter continued to help others. Prior to his diagnosis, he played walking football—a version of the sport where running is prohibited, typically for older individuals with limited mobility. Believing in its broader benefits, Tony established his own team even after being diagnosed with cancer.
At this year’s Southwark Civic Awards, Tony was posthumously honored for his bravery and ability to uplift others during their darkest times, receiving the Liberty of the Old Metropolitan Borough of Southwark.
The annual awards celebrate significant contributions from individuals in the borough, and it is uncommon for the Mayor’s office to bestow awards posthumously, with only three others having received such recognition.
Tony’s widow, Liberal Democrat councillor Maria Linforth-Hall, accepted the award on his behalf. She described the ceremony, attended by people from Millwall and friends, as an emotional evening.
Expressing her pride, Maria said, “Tony deserves this and more. He worked tirelessly for the community, as a housing activist and through initiatives like walking football and Kicking Cancer. We received a standing ovation, the only one that evening. I am so proud of my husband and miss him dearly.”
Cllr Naima Ali, the Mayor of Southwark, praised Tony, saying, “Tony Linforth-Hall was a local hero who inspired many to stay active even after a terminal illness diagnosis. His legacy will live on through the walking football teams he formed and the friendships that emerged from them. Honoring him posthumously is a fitting recognition of his invaluable contributions to our borough until his sad passing last year.”
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