THE local bowls community are struggling to come to terms with the sudden passing of administrator extraordinaire Andy Cox eleven days after collapsing on the green at the City of Peterborough club.
He was deeply passionate about the sport of bowls and dedicated in its administration to the extent that he was heavily involved in the running of no fewer than four local bowls organisations, all of whom are left with a massive void to overcome.
Without question he was one of the most efficient, innovative, professional and dedicated local bowls administrators of his generation, and a real gentleman to boot!
Over many decades he was the main cog in the Peterborough League’s administrative machine, and at the time of his passing combined the role of secretary with that of treasurer.
In recent years he added to his administrative portfolio, becoming secretary of the City of Peterborough club following the passing of another administrative icon in Malcolm Squires; treasurer of the Northants Bowling Federation and a director at the Peterborough & District club, and immersed himself in all these roles, often going way beyond his remit because he was a person who had problems saying ‘No’.
From his background in accountancy, he was well equipped to deal with the financial aspects of the associations, producing detailed financial statements and forecasts that sometimes mesmerised his colleagues on the various committees, but a number of local clubs were grateful for his expertise when it came to auditing their annual accounts.
The local bowls world should be forever grateful for the massive contribution Andy made in the organisation of the sport and he will be sadly missed by all who had the pleasure of being in his company and working alongside him on the various committees.
Obviously our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Sue and the family at this desperately sad time.
The funeral is to be a private family affair, but his widow is considering arranging a celebration of Andy’s life later in the year.
