Former County President loses battle against cancer

Tributes are pouring in for David Croxton after the former County President and England Golf board member passed away last week following a long battle against cancer.

Croxton, who held a number of senior posts during a long career in the golf industry, will best be remembered as the proprietor of Cold Ashby Golf Club, where he was in charge for over 40 years, before retiring last year.

Club Chairman Graham Bott said: “David was well-thought of by everyone who met and worked with him.

“He was a visionary at Cold Ashby, and in particular helping develop junior golf – we are very fortunate to be benefitting from his legacy.

“It was a sad moment when we heard the news and all our thoughts and best wishes go out to his family.”

Former Club professional Shane Rose posted on Facebook: “Some people come into your life and change it for the best. This man was a massive influence in my life and pathway.

“His love of the game of golf and people was infectious. Unfortunately today he played his final 18 holes and said goodbye to us all. Mr Croxton will be missed by a number of people. RIP David Croxton.”

County Secretary John Pearson added: “David was quite simply one of the nicest people I have ever known.

“But behind his friendly, laid back exterior was a shrewd mind which he employed most successfully to the benefit of golf, particularly in Northamptonshire.

“He was County President from 1998 to 2000 and part of his legacy will be that he founded the Millennium Fund which has raised thousands of pounds to support the County’s young golfers.

“He also served on the Board of England Golf. He even recruited me to the post of County Secretary, but I suppose we must allow him one mistake!

“I shall miss him badly as I’m sure will his many friends and our thoughts are with Wendy, Greg, Jim and the rest of the family.”