Roy Edwards, aged 75 years, died on Friday 23 October 2015, in Compton Hospice, after a long and difficult battle against cancer. Ron Stevenson, Chairman of Wolverhampton Bridge Club, said that the club had lost its “best and most prolific player”.

Roy’s passion for bridge dominated most of his adult life. After growing up in West Bromwich, he taught himself to play bridge in his thirties and became a very enthusiastic player initially in North Birmingham and then at Wolverhampton Bridge Club.

He was an excellent player, achieving the national rank of Grand Master and successfully competing at club, county and national levels. He won numerous club and Congress events. One of his fondest memories was of being presented the Torquay Congress Trophy in 1988 by the late Julia Chadwick, life member of the EBU, who was then 100 years old.

Roy made an outstanding contribution to the game of bridge, both within the club and outside. He played on most days in Wolverhampton and certainly had a strong table presence, encouraging –or berating – his partners.

Regardless of his tone, his role in teaching, coaching and directing helped and inspired players at all levels. Very many club members are grateful to him for helping them to improve their play.

Many players across the country have happy memories of enjoying bridge weekends in the Cotswolds in the eighties and Hilton Hotel holidays in the nineties that Roy organised along with David and Marilyn Jones, national tournament directors. Later, Roy used these experiences to shape and run the popular Yuletide Pairs competition in Wolverhampton.

Roy will be sadly missed. It may be quieter at the bridge table but members agree that his contribution to the club will be difficult to replicate.

Wolverhampton Bridge Club will shortly announce details of a bridge event to celebrate Roy’s contribution to bridge. All players, nationally and locally will be welcome.

Details of Roy’s funeral are yet to be announced.