Table Tennis England were saddened to learn of the death of David Hockney on 29 March. David was born in 1952 in Plympton, Devon but was better known in the Bath and Avon area as well as at national level.

David was a constant presence in the Bath and District Table Tennis League where he not only played but served as their Assistant General Secretary 1992-93, General Secretary from 1994-2004 and later as their Chairman for 20 years from 2004 until 2024.

David was a strong but quiet presence on the Avon County Table Tennis Association, firstly as a member of their Management Committee, then Deputy Chairman from 1996-99, General Secretary from 1999-2001 and Chairman from 2008-18. He also held the position of Press Officer and was Deputy National Councillor from 2004-14, stepping up as National Councillor until 2018.

At national level David’s influence and sound judgement were well used on the British League Committee from 2003-14 and the Voting Review Group from 2015-18. Perhaps his most significant contribution was as a well-respected and knowledgeable member of the Standing Orders Committee which he served so well from 2000 until it was disbanded in 2023.

As well as the administrative functions, David was also an excellent Tournament Organiser and was a familiar presence on the Grand Prix circuit particularly at Bath and Bristol Grand Prix. Always obliging, he worked with a quiet competence and some of you may recall the task of carrying the tables up flights of stairs to set up the hall at the Bath Sports Centre, never an easy job but one always carried out without complaint. He was respected by all who knew him.

For his work throughout Bath, Avon and England, David was honoured by the ETTA when he was made a Vice President in 2018.

David will be sadly missed not only in his local area but also at national level.

Peter Galea, Bath General Secretary said: “David served on the Committee for approximately 35 years after joining in 1991. He also served as Club Secretary for RNSTS, and later Ensleigh (in its later incarnation). Dedication and competence were two of David’s greatest traits when it came to dealing with administrative matters. He was also our Avon County representative for many years.

“On a personal level I was grateful for all his advice and encouragement as a young player at RNSTS in the late 1970s. Many of you will have fond memories of talking with him about table tennis matters of all kinds. David’s son Duncan also played for RNSTS for a couple of seasons.

“He will be sorely missed, not just at meetings, but also on the playing circuit. His enthusiasm and drive will be difficult to match.”

Our condolences go to David’s wife, Anne, children Duncan and Natasha, and all family and friends.

Details of David’s funeral service will be advised when known.