NEWPORT Golf Club is mourning the loss of one of its longest-serving members who, despite suffering with Alzheimers for ten years, remained a member to the day she died.

Anne Davis joined the club 65 years ago in 1954, as an 18-year-old golfer, and she continued playing regularly until she was no longer able to due to the disease.

During her time as a member, Anne became a stalwart at the club, first as ladies captain in 1985 and then taking over the reigns as club secretary in 1986. She stayed in that position for an unprecedented ten years of loyal service and is fondly remembered still by many of those she helped and supported over that time.

Anne’s membership at Newport’s oldest golf club was very much a family affair. Her husband Gilbert joined in 1944 and, at 84 years old himself, still plays three times a week after stints as club captain and club president. Anne’s brothers-in-law, Gilbert’s brothers, Tom and Michael Davis were also long-serving members, both becoming club captains, with Tom also serving as president. The three brothers presented the club with the clock that now sits on top of the clubhouse building.

Anne’s sister Rosemary also joined briefly, while Rosemary’s husband Roger Morris, now 88 years old, is also a past club captain and still a member today. Finally, Anne’s son William was also a member as a boy, as were her nephews, Ben, Stephen, Christopher and Richard – all with varying degrees of success.

Anne didn’t confine her sporting exploits in Newport to golf though. She was also a member of Stow Park Lawn Tennis Club for over 40 years and, again, remained so until she died.

A memorial service for Anne will take place at St Mark’s Church, in Newport, on November 9, at midday. Family, friends and any golfers or tennis players will be very welcome. Mourners will gather after the service at Newport Golf Club – where else.