From a VETTS perspective, the story starts in 1982, when Mike Watts rang Derek Schofield to say that Hans Westling was organising a veteran’s tournament in Gothenburg, which looked like a great idea. After this “Unofficial” World Championships, a call was made by those attending for more Veteran’s activity. A paper entitled the ‘Veterans Scene’ was written by Mike Watts in Sep 1983, and over 150 players responded. In January 1984, the inaugural meeting of the Veteran English Table Tennis Society took place in Coventry. Maurice Golstein was duly elected as President, Derek Schofield as Chairman, and Mike Watts as Secretary.
From a VETTS perspective, the rest as they say is history, as the VETTS under the stewardship of Mike with Hilda at his side flourished. Hilda was a passionate and dedicated supporter of, and volunteer for the Society. She supported Mike when he master-minded two events in Manchester, including the 1978 World Veterans' Championships.
When Mike passed away in 2001, aged 64, Hilda wanted to do something in his memory. She donated the Mike Watts Memorial Award, which was to be presented annually for loyal and dedicated service to the Veteran English Table Tennis Society. This award continues to this day.
Thank you Hilda for everything you did for the VETTS. We send our sincere condolences to Hilda’s family and friends.
