Our dear friend, Janet Palmer, long-standing club member and loyal supporter of the club passed on 10 February 2025 at the age of 81. The very sad news came as an unwelcome surprise, as Janet, although retiring from tennis 2 years ago, remained fit and in good health as far as we at the club were aware. She's pictured above in recent times celebrating her birthday in the clubhouse.

Janet was a continuous member of RPTC for around 30 years and played every Friday morning without fail, taking to Tarka's indoor courts with the other long-standing 'Friday Club' members when the weather wasn't sufficiently favourable to play at the club. She only retired from playing 2 years ago, when she felt her game wasn't any longer up to the standards she expected. Janet had only recently intended to instead have a go at pickle ball, thinking that may be better to suited to people in their 80s!

In any event, Janet was a fine tennis player and those that played with/against her all simply advised just to keep it away from her, especially when at the net! That was easier said than done as it was also said she seemed to be "on wheels" at the net, where she was a demon!

Pictured above - Janet in position!

Perhaps Janet's only fault was one some of us only recently came to learn -  she in fact apparently preferred badminton to tennis (we'll allow her one error of judgement) and was really rather good at this alternative, if inferior(!), disclipline.

Janet was a professional Civil Celebrant, who was authorised to conduct weddings. Described as a shy and reserved lady, she was nonetheless fun-loving as well as great fun to be around. Janet was a very loyal friend, to whom religion and the church were very important, and she will be hugely missed by her family, her many  friends and all of us at the club. Rest in peace Janet - your longeivity in our sport and loyalty to the club have been inspirational.

Janet pictured above with members past and present - Gill, Sue, Alex and Rachel.

A Thanksgiving Service is being held at Lavington United Reformed Church, Bideford at 12.30pm for Janet, on Monday 17 March 2025. All are welcome. It is requested that family flowers only please. All donations in her memory can be made to Christian Aid at the Service or c/o W. S. Gayton & Son, Pickett Meadow, Fremington, Barnstaple, EX31 3UP.