Monday 26 April 2010

Denis O’Donovan (1949-2010)

Denis, who died of a fatal heart attack on 23 April, had been a well-known figure in the Kent bridge world for over thirty years. Denis, who was originally from Ireland, won a Silver medal for Ireland in the 1974 European Youth Championship in Copenhagen. Later on, he represented Kent in the Tollemache on many occasions, being part of the winning team four times. Other national successes include Crockfords (three times) and the Pachabo. He played twice for England in international matches; he particularly enjoyed a match against Ireland in Galway, where he was brought up. He had been selected to represent England in the forthcoming Seniors Camrose.

Away from the bridge table he followed a career in education, having been a secondary school headmaster. His many other interests included sport, especially football. He was a former referee and was involved in the administration of youth football in the county.

Denis lived near Canterbury and is survived by his wife Maria, two children and two grandchildren. He will be sorely missed.

Patrick Collins and Peter Law