'Scottish Bill' Edwards was one of the Federation's most senior members and had attained the rank of 3rd Duan long before any of our existing 3rd or even 4th Duans. He was for many years, Grandmaster Loke's first senior student and his very close friend. Sadly, he died very suddenly and unexpectedly of a brain haemorrhage in July of 1988.

1979 Championships: Chafford Sports Complex, Rainham, Essex
Mr Edwards referees a boys free fighting bout

A massive favourite among the students, nothing was ever too much trouble for Bill, especially where the children were concerned. Perhaps one of his main fortés was in putting both the adults and the youngsters at their ease with his 'words of wisdom' and comic antics during such stressful times as gradings and competitions etc. when pre-performance nerves were getting somewhat stretched.

He was a past Chairman and long-serving member of the National Federation Committee and was known and popular throughout the various regions of the United Kingdom. It was therefore a great shock to many when he passed away.

Demonstration in Corringham, Essex in 1978.
Bill Edwards is immediately behind

Each year therefore as a tribute to Bill and to help keep his memory alive, The "Bill Edwards" Memorial Trophy is presented at the National Championships to the youngster who has either made the most marked progress over the year or has consistently demonstrated the true spirit of Tang Sou Dao or who has overcome some physical obstacle or setback simply through sheer perseverance, determination and courage.

Free Sparring 1978

For those of you who were not fortunate enough to meet Bill, there is, and always will be, a picture of him prominently displayed at Headquarters. Look around and you will find him. He is the one doing the jumping front snap kick.

Refereeing 1979

Although Bill's ashes were returned to his native Scotland and ostensibly 'away' from Essex, a special place remains in the hearts of all who knew this larger than life character and he will not be forgotten, (and it would tickle him something chronic to hear he was recorded in cyberspace.) As a tanker driver, where else should he be but on the Internet Highway.

	Roll of Honour
2012	Rebecca Rowe-Wakeling	Chelmsford
2011	David Cohen-Morton	Grays
2010	Danielle Nicholls	Grays
2009	Alex McIntyre	Chelmsford
2008	Danny Green	Tunbridge Wells
2007	Oliver Salter	Reading
2006	David Morris	Wickford
2005	Jack Jenner	East Grinstead
2004	Michael Smith	Chelmsford
2003	Danielle Young	Hornchurch
2002	Alexander Williams	Tunbridge Wells
2001	Samantha Isbell	Braintree
2000	Sam Peniston	Rochford
1999	Matthew Hassall	Horsham
1998	Christopher Jupp	Chelmsford
1997	Deepa Patel	Rainham
1996	Lewis Wright	Corringham
1995	Lee Bodell	Hornchurch
1994	Gavin Ward	Haywards Heath
1993	Jamie Moules	Grays
1992	Harry Fairfield	Strood
1991	Paul Laxton	Hornchurch
1990	Robert Howard	Hornchurch
1989	Richard Harte	Hornchurch
1988	Dean Robinson	Corringham

 

Article by Master Chris Cook, Secretary BTSDF

 

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