BILL COLLINGS

1909 - 2009

Bill left his Barnstaple home at 17 working for Lloyds Bank in twenty branches before becoming Manager in Newquay.  He played most sports and was a Wimbledon Umpire for ten years, living in a caravan outside the main gate with expenses of 4 1/2d per mile plus a free lunch !

During the war Bill trained with the RAF aircrew, before going to Madras as a Signals Officer.  He joined the invasion staff in Bombay and was heading for Malaya when the Japanese surrendered.  Bill then became a Staff Officer in Kuala Lumpur.

He went to his first bridge club at 16 and played ever since. With his first wife Rita he competed in congresses across Southern England and further afield.   They enjoyed considerable success and won the pairs in Killarney and came second in the teams.  He played in the Pachabo several times, most recently four years ago.

Bill was the first Treasurer for Somerset, Chairman of Devon & Cornwall and later, Treasurer and Chairman for Cornwall.  He helped start St. Austell Arts and Newquay Bridge Clubs, which he ran for many years.  He received a Dimmie Fleming Award in 1995.

Bill travelled widely often wintering in South Africa with his daughter. He was still driving at 99 years of age and was an active member of Probus, plus - with Eileen - enjoyed ballet and concerts in Truro.  He continued playing bridge once or twice a week up until early summer this year.

But life did not stop at 99 for Bill and in the Autumn of 2008 he married his 'lady' Eileen, much to all our delight.!!  In January 2009 Bill and Eileen spent a hectic month of various celebrations of his 100th birthday.

This full life came to a peaceful close on Sunday 13th September 2009 in his home with Eileen at his side.  This gregarious man was highly regarded and will be much missed by all, but long remain in our memories.

Our thoughts and wishes go out to Eileen and the family through the days ahead. 

GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU BILL

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The funeral service will take place on Monday 28th September 2009  - noon - at Penmount Crematorium, Truro.

FAMILY FLOWERS ONLY - Any donations to the NEWQUAY Branch of the Lifeboat Association, RNLI. - thank you.