Mark Douglas Madgwick (12 Dec 1960 - 9 Sep 2026)

Thank you Mark, for averting more techie calamities than I care to remember, always making me laugh (especially when I was struggling with your definition of "five minutes"), and always, always saving the day. You were a one off, and one of the really good guys - it was a privilege to know you.
Sleep well, mate xx

We will miss all the help Mark gave us over the years
With deepest sympathy to all his family

We couldn't have managed without the care and support of these wonderful dedicated nurses, and will will be eternally grateful for fulfilling his final wish to be at home

I always remember the day that Mark came bouncing into the yard in the mid to late 1980's at James Bethells looking for a small yard in which to trial his accounts system. The next time he came he said "come on we're off to Bath races, the computer can do the work". He made it all such fun and straightforward. It was lovely to then have Mark there for all my working life, firstly at James Bethells, then Oliver Sherwood, back to James and then finally with Ed Bethell. He was one of life's great characters. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

We are so sorry for your loss but have fond memories of meeting and chatting with Mark on our daily dog walks

There was only one 'Madg' who could solve all computer problems. Although I was never quite sure whether 'ring you back in five' meant 5 mins. or 5 hours he always got there in the end. Memories include his ansaphone message 'I don't know where I am or what I'm doing but leave a message...' and there was the entertaining Frontrunner News - racing's Private Eye, a refreshing cry out against the establishment. Mark was part of the hidden wiring that keeps our wonderful sport going and, while very clever, I shall remember most his generosity of spirit.

What a amazing man ! Funny with such a wonderful spirit always so kind and caring to Ronan who remembers the great holiday in Spain and all the fantastic memories spent at The Madgwicks home x Ronan especially remembers his laugh and smile x He was a fantastic man xx

Remembering the day Mark took my friend racing at Newmarket . I said to her that she wouldn’t have time for a drink as Mark loves his racing and will want to see all the action. Little did I know he did take her to the bar once or twice and it all went pear shaped when he told her to drink up quickly between races. I well remember the impish grin when he brought her back. So many happy memories of a special guy

With heartfelt love and thinking of Mark’s family and friends, my thoughts and prayers are with You all, thank you for allowing us ‘outsiders’ to share the special photos and memories. J x

‘95, Royal Athlete won the National and I met “Mr M” - a Racing Secretary’s superhero, our own Captain Marvel who quietly saved the day (and many a bollocking). He was our own front runner..
During the past 30+ years Mr M schooled me to sit up at the chair whilst He took the reins at the end of the phone –just like Monty Roberts, Mr M had his own industry language;

“Brace yourself, I’m coming in!” (I now know for this I go to startcontrol)
“Just say Yes”
“Pull that blue bar down to the bottom”
“try the other one”
“stop playing with the mouse”

Mr M was our dependable neck strap at Month ends, Year ends, his stamina especially kicked in around Payroll ends which invariably interrupted his Cheltenham and Aintree - more of us were lined up for hand holding instructions than in the Foxhunters, we got our orders, “Hang on, just finishing someone else” or “hassle me in an hour and I will do it, no problem” and true to form, he always delivered and got us across the line. Throughout the years of new software, updates and the introduction of dreaded pension schemes, Mr M only ever exhibited a grand temperament, never broke into a sweat, and was totally unflappable, testimony no doubt to his huge intellect and skills, how lucky we were He chose to work with us. He really was unique, a one-of-a-kind generous industry colleague and I will forever remember him for his humour, wit, always being on side with an open door, and his undeniable passion for racing (not to mention freebie pirated software , hot off the press gossip and ante post tips!). I treasure a friendship of someone I rarely came face to face with, yet who offered an unconditional support and bond, Mark was our go to, our problem solver, our sanity and light relief, I can honestly say He never once let me down, how many folk can I say that about..
In the past few years I have most loved and admired Mr M’s determination to live life fully and stick two fingers up to his cruellest challenger without falter, an inspirational courage, a bravery with great humour, we were all willing You to win. God Bless Madge, You are loved and will forever make me smile as I continue to follow the careers of the horses you put up this year, it’s been a blast x

I have never met Mark, but my other half, Tom Hailes was and will always be extremely fond of him. As someone who also lost someone I loved to cancer, I am more than happy to donate to this beautiful cause. Rest in peace now Mark.
Adriana

I will always be grateful that I had the privilege of knowing Mark.

From the very first time I met him, he took me under his wing. He introduced me to so many of his customers all over the country and gave me an enormous amount of support, particularly through some very difficult years of my life. I will never forget that kindness.

And whenever Mark knew I was coming, there always seemed to be a sausage roll waiting for me — a small thing, perhaps, but something that summed him up perfectly. Thoughtful, generous and always looking out for other people.

Mark was one of those rare people who genuinely made a difference to the lives of those around him. I certainly wouldn't be where I am today without some of the help and support he gave me along the way.

Thank you for everything, Mark. I will always remember you with enormous fondness — and I'll never look at a sausage roll quite the same way again.

Rest in peace, my friend.

Tom

Condolences to all Mark’s family & friends.
Mark saved me from many an impending disaster at Somerville Lodge for 24 years & I, like so many, will miss his humour, patience & warmth…….

In memory of my dear friend Mark Madgwick

Mark was my friend, a true one of a kind. The sort of friend that keeps you grounded, makes you laugh uncontrollably. When I needed him most, he was there to pick me up. I will miss you my friend.

A true gentleman!

We will all miss Mark at the office.
So glad to have known him.

June, Anna, Charlene, Sharon and Yvonne.

Sad to lose one of the good ones. My sincere condolonces to the family