I was, what I’d describe as, the “junior member” of the illustrious Turner, Tarling, Walker, Marsland, Bentley, Hodgson, Hyde et al group of East Glos tennis players from about the late 1970’s. No doubt due to age discrepancies it was Denis who nicknamed me as “the kid”.
I have two overriding memories of Denis. The first is, like many others will have, his undoubted prowess on court. The second, his artistry in producing many and varied designs on the perimeter of the plate (when we all enjoyed “team chips after a game) with a tomato ketchup bottle! It’s funny how little things like this stick in the mind. Denis was also particularly tolerant and understanding of the gulf in class between us when he was unfortunate enough to partner me on court in my formative years at the club.
I’m sorry I won’t be able to attend on the 7th May but Denis will be uppermost in my thoughts on the day. So au revoir Denis, my friend.
David Parsons
(Djcparsons@btinternet.com).
David Parsons
24/04/2026
