We are saddened to learn that Ted Wallbutton, ETTA Chief Executive from 1987 to 1990, died on 5 June 2026 aged 86.

Ted took up his position as CEO of the then ETTA on 1 June 1987. Ted had previously worked as Marketing Manager for the Squash Rackets Association and made a significant impact in this role there. He said on his ETTA appointment: “This new position is a real challenge and one which I accept with enthusiasm. I feel that table tennis has a great future and have been greatly encouraged by recent steps taken by the management to progress the sport.” 

During his time at the ETTA there were some significant events and improvements. Major sponsorship increased including from the Leeds Permanent Building Society who provided £500,000 over a three-year period providing support over a wide range of events from grassroots right through to international level. Television coverage increased significantly during his time at the ETTA with major events as well as domestic ones being shown on prime-time television.

There was higher prize money for players, the ETTA offices moved from a rather dilapidated building in Claremont, Hastings to a more modern office block in Queensbury House. There was a greater emphasis on women’s table tennis, championed by Jose Ransome, who held a Women in Table Tennis seminar in 1988 which led to the formation of the Women’s British League. There was a further women’s conference in 1990.

Table tennis entered the Olympic Games in Seoul in 1988, a significant milestone. A Euro/Asia tournament took place bringing top level play to England, a new Youth Cup was introduced, National Top 12 championships took place as well as English Opens, European League matches and the Leeds Masters. There was an Olympic Qualifying tournament and a tour by Sweden prior to the Olympics. China toured England in 1988, playing 15 matches in front of 12,000 and followed up with a further three-match tour in 1990.

Ted left the ETTA on 21 September 1990 to take up the position of Chief Executive of World Squash, their international governing body, where he served for 15 years and was well respected.

When Ted left the ETTA, John Prean, the ETTA Chairman at the time, spoke of Ted’s devoted and distinguished service, saying he had played a major and indispensable part in the substantial progress the sport had made.

Our condolences go to Ted’s family and friends.