Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards

He’s been called goofy, he’s been called inept but these accusations are unfounded. He has been called plucky and this is certainly true, Eddie was an inspiration.

He didn’t have the kit the other guys had, he didn’t even have the practice or experience the others had, oh boy though did he want to jump. This mans unfaltering determination in the Calgary Winter Olympics made him an icon of British spirit. This presumed spirit may not really be glowing within us all, but we’d like to think so. The terrific international response to his efforts could have verged upon patronising, it didn’t though, it was pure warmth, a true welcome into many bosoms.

Brian Haw

[First published in 2006] These heroes are placed in no particular order, and nominations are always open, but it seems relevant to follow number three’s […]