Friends of Judith Johnston are invited to join the family to celebrate Judith’s life on the afternoon of Thursday March 5th in Kendal. Full details are available by clicking here (member login required).

RSVP BY MONDAY 23 FEBRUARY

Congratulations to Pro-Am Cup Winners Bob Stow and Phillip Burley

Judith Johnston died peacefully in hospital on 31st January 2026 after a short illness with all her family around her.

Married to Bob, both enjoyed many years of bridge in Kendal, and Judith continued to play after Bob’s death in 2023. They were  initially members of the Dowkers  Lane  Social club which nearly folded due to lack of younger organisers; Bob and Judith were instrumental in recruiting volunteers to keep that club going, and it still flourishes today. Both were classical music lovers and faithful attendees at all local musical events. Bob and Judith were active members of the South lakes u3a and coordinated the walking group initially; there are now 13 walking groups.

Well travelled, it was Bob’s health that restricted their love of adventure travels, cruising gave them the safety to continue and always included calling on their daughter, Kathryn, in America in time for Thanksgiving.  Judith continued to cruise and enjoy Atlantic sea crossings right up until Summer 2025.

Recently Judith has been closely supported by her daughter Bridget. With her help, Judith was able to enjoy the company of a new dog, Roxy and join in arranging fund raising concerts to support Ukrainian refugees. Her son, Desmond, was a regular visitor, ensuring Judith was able to make the most of these concerts when Bridget had her hands full.

Her calm and considerate presence at the bridge club will be missed.

As a Bridge Club, we are happy to be a venue where players of all abilities can play Bridge in a friendly and supportive environment.

We cannot however stand still. We have had a programme of teaching beginners to enjoy and play the game, run by David Harris and helped by other members, which is coming to an end at Easter, and David has indicated his wish to hand over to a new lead member.

There are already a number of enquiries for a new course to start in September with the day and time subject to agreement and availability of the facilities. If any member feels that they have the urge to pass on their experiences and expertise, we would welcome them to come forward. The EBU has an extensive support structure and offers a training course for potential Bridge teachers to help them to become confident in showing the way.

If any members are interested, please contact David Harris, who can give advice.

John Sellar, Chairman. Bridge Committee.