Sadly Andy Mercer died on the 15th December 2023 after brain tumours were found in the autumn.

He had returned to Essex a year ago to be closer to his family, after many years living in Scotland. 

He played bridge very successfully in Scotland, I believe in clubs around the Glasgow area and after moving southwards continued to participate in competitions online with his Scottish teammates.

Within a a few weeks of moving to Brentwood he had found the Mayflower Bridge Club and he and I (Angela) played together for 6 months at Barleylands and Mayflower and were hoping to participate in events in 2024.  He was a lovely partner, quiet and keeping any discussion of hands to away from the table!

I was very glad his family contacted me in early December when, as his condition deteriorated. They looked through his phone and saw several messages from me. He had just moved to a care home and I visited him a week before he died.    

He may have only been playing bridge in our area for a short time but I am sure had things been different he would have been an asset to Essex Bridge.

Angela Fenton

It is with great sadness that we have to announce that Catriona died this morning Friday 26th March 2021.

Catriona was a well liked member of the club and will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

Catriona was club captain for many years, leading the Mayflower team to victory in the Fletcher trophy in 2017.

It is with great sadness we heard the news that Chris passed away on Saturday 28th November after a long battle with Cancer.

Chris was a lovely man and excellent Bridge player and he will be sorely missed.

Our thoughts are with his wife, Karen and his family.

Funeral arrangements are not yet known but will be restricted due to Covid-19 rules.

Unhappily we have to announce the death of Peter Drew, a stalwart club member. Our deepest condolences to Frances.

The funeral will take place on 9th April, Upminster Crematorium 14:00