John Coppack dies at 95

John Coppack, who has died aged 95, was a typical club professional of his generation who sacrificed much of his own game to concentrate on teaching members how to play.

He had followed in the spikemarks of his father Jack, incumbent at Yorkshire clubs Alsager and Cleckheaton before moving his family to Bridlington in 1932.

John, who took over from him at the spa resort when he retired in 1957, joined the professional ranks as his assistant in 1934. But his career was interrupted by the Second World War in which he served as an aircraftsman in 600 Squadron.

He returned home after the cessation of hostilities only to find his job at Bridlington had been given to someone else and he was not reinstated until a year later after a spell at Low Laithes.

John became well known in the East Riding for club-making and repairing, having been a keen wood turner, and fellow professionals soon took advantage of his skills.

And he also rubbed shoulders with celebrities at the Spa Theatre who were accorded free access to the course and free lessons.

Among them were Les Dawson, Adam Faith and Alma Cogan and in previous years he often played golf with the mother of legendary pilot Ami Johnson who had a house in the area.

John, a PGA Professional for 78 years and an honorary member, is survived by his widow Joan, 94. They were due to celebrate their 70^th wedding anniversary in a few months.

He is also survived by sons Gary, Glyn and Jeremy.

The funeral is tomorrow (June 30, noon) at St John the Evangelist Church, Church Lane, Sewerby, East Yorkshire, YO15 1EA.