It is with great sadness that I learned today, 7th April, of the death of Tony Axford. Tony was one of the founder members of the club and, as a dedicated committee member, played a vital part in raising funds, designing and organising the construction of the courts and clubhouse. He was a formidable tennis player, known by his fellow team players as ‘The Big Axe’! He captained the men’s First Team when they won the top league in the county.
Tony continued to raise funds for the club over the years. He organised the event of ‘Chariot Racing’. which was held on the recreation field. He also organised the installation of a bar in the clubhouse, this proved very popular, particularly when the Keyworth Rugby Team came visiting after home matches.
Tony helped me personally when we were in the initial stages of organising the 50/53rd Anniversary Party. He let me borrow and copy precious black and white photographs of early activities in the club’s history. It was due to him that I managed to invite many past members of the club who came to the party and thoroughly enjoyed our ‘photo board’ and meeting and chatting with old friends.
Our sincere condolences go to his wife and family. Tony was a stalwart in this village and will be sadly missed.
John Stansfield – Club Chairman