East Region stalwart dies

Tributes have been paid to former PGA board member and longstanding Thorndon Park head PGA Professional Brian White who has died after a long battle with cancer.

The 66 year old was the popular club pro at the Essex for nearly 40 years and was made an Honorary Member of the PGA in 2014.

An influential administrator, fine coach and respected club pro, Brian was a founding committee member of the PGA East Region in 1987.

He became chairman in 1992 and served on the PGA’s national executive committee until 1997 when he was elected to the PGA board of directors and represented his region until April 2014.

PGA chief executive Sandy Jones said: “Brian was a stalwart of our board for more than 20 years. He was a board member I very much respected and considered a friend and enjoyed his company over many years, particularly when he represented the East Region at the PGAs of Europe conferences.

“He was greatly committed to the PGA and the game and just wanted to make it better for his fellow pros and give enjoyment to as many club golfers as possible.

“Our thoughts go to his wife Irene, who was always very positive and the heart and soul of many Ryder Cup trips.”

PGA chairman David Murchie paid this tribute: “When I first joined the Board, I sat next to Brian and he was really very helpful and welcoming, and kept me right on procedure. He was really good on that front and when I was feeling a bit awkward always had a wee bit of advice.

“He was a very quiet and thoughtful man and just loved the game of golf.

“Brian was a real PGA man, through and through, and I always loved spending time with him and having a good natter on all matters golf.”

Brian was an observer at several Ryder Cups through the 90s and 2000s, while away from golf, he was a huge cricket fan, cheering on his beloved Essex and was also a supporter of his beloved West Ham.

David Wright, the PGA’s director of heritage and the former secretary of the then PGA East Region, said: “Brian was a highly respected and popular figure in Essex and also at national level where he served with distinction.

“I worked closely with Brian in the establishment of the East Region in the late 80s and remember his guiding influence in ensuring the region’s growth and stability.

“The Association extends its condolences to his widow Irene, son Andrew, who is training to be a PGA Professional like his father, and daughter Lucy and her husband James.”