It has been a very sad week for Sidmouth Bowling Club with the announcement that one of the club’s longest serving members, Tom Reynolds passed away on August 18, write Ron Cook and Len Catford.

Tom joined the club in 1968 following a career in the Royal Hong Kong police force. He became a distinguished bowler as well as an active member in the general running and management of the Club. Appointed Indoor Captain in 1988, again in 2006 and Outdoor Captain in 1998, Tom was awarded his County badge in 1994.

In 1992 he was nominated as Junior Vice President of Devon County Bowling Association and honoured with the County Presidency in 1995 and became a well- known and respected member throughout the county.

In 1992 Tom was elected Sidmouth’s Club President and this was to be followed in 1995 with the recognition he justly deserved, that of Life Membership.

In 2008, Tom completed his second term as Club President. Although a non-player in recent years, he was a frequent visitor around lunchtime and always with a friendly smile and word of greeting.

He will long be remembered.

The funeral service will take place at Sidmouth Parish Church on Tuesday, August 30, at 2:30pm followed by a reception at Sidmouth Bowling Club.