It is probable that you will have heard by now of the sad death of a swimming stalwart - Mary Wilkinson who passed away after a short illness on 9th March, although she had not enjoyed the best of health for some years. Her funeral was held at Reading on 22nd March. Sadly I could not be present because I was in Spain so I take this first opportunity to record my tribute in memory of Mary.

A minute of quiet contemplation was upheld by all attending prior to the County Championships at Maidenhead on Saturday 10th March and in particular for those that knew her. Mary was primarily recognised as the ever supporting wife of Wilky through all his years of service to the Reading SC, Newbury SC, the County, SCASA and to swimming in general but Mary should be remembered in her own right.

One of Mary’s more prominent roles for year after year was ‘front desk’ at the SCASA ACM. Most of you that have attended have had your paperwork authorised by Mary and she has counted your votes. Behind the scenes Mary worked hard with Wilky particularly with the book keeping of the SCASA Treasurership. Mary has been the inspiration for many behind the scene worker. She was one of the influences for my family becoming volunteers. When my daughter first started County swimming we looked behind the scenes and asked "who is that lady who sits week after week doggedly producing results?" - via a steam driven, well actually Mary driven, typewriter. No luxury of computers in those days - just solid hard work. Of course it was Mary, and her trusted cohort Margery Lambert, for those that remember. So there was the shining example to follow and many of us did. Thank you Mary.

Mary of course was also the life source for the continuing contribution of her family to swimming via her daughter Janet who has been a County swimmer from an early age, and is the current 2007 Berkshire and South Buckinghamshire President. What a shame Mary could not see Janet through her full year as President. And then the swimming talent passed through to her grand-daughter who has been, and is, a wonderful County swimmer.

A lovely lady that will be missed.

On behalf of you all, I pass my sympathy to Wilky and the family.

E.J.Lyne