A tribute has been paid by Keswick Bridge Club to a stalwart member who has died.
Club member John Wilmott said Joan Taylor was a convivial member of the Keswick community, but to the bridge community she was something rather special.
“If she were a footballer, Keswick Bridge Club would retire her shirt number permanently,” said John. “In truth, her gift was managerial; she ran the establishment with an ocean of common sense, quiet authority, and a disposition that made it an exceptionally friendly and welcoming club.”
He added that despite her illness, in her final year, she won the regular partnership championship and would win or finish on the podium at the weekly duplicate. Furthermore, she represented Cumbria in the Northern Bridge League.
“When it came to the club, nothing was too much trouble,” said John. “She helped with the supervised practice. She saw more of the membership socially and helped give the club its special esprit de corps.
“Joan could be relied upon to organise the club’s social functions, making cakes, and all those special things behind the scenes that it takes to ensure a successful outcome.
“She was a friend and mentor to us all. Our heart goes out to her bridge partner, Leo, who has had to endure the loss of his wife in the same week. The club extends its deepest sympathy to her family.”
