It was with great regret that the League learned this week of the sudden and unexpected death of Steve Hawthorn. Steve had been a member of the Hatfield Peverel Table Tennis Club for some 10 years, and until last season was a regular member of their 'C' side in Division 4; along with Guy McKenzie and Dave Bridge.

Steve, aged 54, collapsed last Monday (2 December) suffering a fatal heart attack. Ill health had forced him to drastically reduce his table tennis last season, but many that knew him will well, remember his unique and rather awkward left handed back flip shot which often left opponents frustrated, bemused and unable to reply! Steve was a very competitive, although laid back player. One who would always give the benefit of any doubt to his opponent, whatever the cost. As well as his participation in the Chelmsford League, he was also a regular of the Brentwood League, where he played for Billericay, his home town.

Steve started his working career as a musician, and met his wife Maria whilst working on cruise ships in the 70's. They have three children, Melanie, Lyndsey and Elliot.

In more recent times Steve had been a great supporter of social events of both of his Clubs and, together with Maria, was a 'whiz' at the 'quiz'. Next to table tennis he had developed a fondness for golf, playing, strangely enough, off a 21 handicap. Steve was always a loyal club and team member and carried this loyalty and friendship through to his golf. A recent example being a reunion weekend in Bath with golfing buddies he had met and holidayed with over recent years. Although he had been forced to almost give up table tennis completely, he remained optimistic, having recently told a fellow team member that he hoped he would be fit enough to resume play in the new year. Sadly he has not been able to achieve this.

The funeral service will be on Friday 13th December at midday at Emmanuel Church, in Laindon Road, Billericay. Followed by a committal. Guests are invited to Steve's home in Billericay after the service if they wish. Donations are welcome to the British Heart Foundation/British Legion.

We would like to express our deepest sympathy to his wife Maria and their children. Steve will be greatly missed by them all and by his fellow team and club members who were fortunate enough to know him.