John was a Professional Tennis Coach, colleague and friend to all those in Notts tennis and for many years John played a major part in the development of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Tennis.
He worked alongside his fellow Professional Tennis Coach, Jim Lee, for many years before becoming an integral member of the LTA Midlands Region Coaching Staff. Nothing was too much trouble for John He always had a 'glint in his eye' and an encouraging word for any player he came in contact with.
As well as coaching many top class junior players during his years with the LTA North Midlands, John also spent many a weekend refereeing competitions at the then 'Highfields Tennis Courts' (now the site of the Nottingham Tennis Centre). He arranged for the County Council caravan to be permanently stationed at the tennis courts from which he would run the tournaments. The caravan certainly became John’s home from home most weekends.
In recognition of his hard-work, he was elected as Chairman of Notts LTA in 1975.
Some best memories of John were when he and Peter Whitehead worked together touring the neighbouring counties in search of young players to train as Ball Boys and Girls for the 1991 Federation Cup, which was held at the Nottingham Tennis Centre. John and Peter notched up hundreds of miles together (laughing most of the way) and thoroughly enjoyed their time training the young ball-kids. Above all, John's over-bubbling enthusiasm and keen professional eye ensured that such a prestigious world event as the Federation Cup had over 140 extremely well-trained, presented and behaved ball-kids. Something John was very proud of.
John looked after the County Ground courts for many years and made sure everything was perfect for the Davis Cup tie against Portugal held on the County grass courts. He was also a volunteer at the ATP Nottingham Open for several years. Latterly, whenever John came to visit the Tennis Centre, in particular the British Open Wheelchair Tournament which he thoroughly enjoyed, he always made time to stop and chat. He will be greatly missed.
Our thoughts are with his wife, Maureen, and the family at this very sad time. Funeral Arrangements: 9.30 am Tuesday January 15th Bramcote Crematorium