A fun bridge competition is being organised in memory of “formidable” former player.

Kingsbridge Bridge Club are holding a fun evening of Bridge in memory of Brian Cook, a former member of the club and former editor of the Gazette, at the Regal Club in Kingsbridge on Tuesday, June 19.

Ann Cripps, chair of Kingsbridge Bridge Club, explained that as well as being a regular player of the club, he also taught Bridge and was also a formidable chess player.

Ann said: “He was important to us and we miss him. We will play handicapped pairs, to ensure the competition is open for everyone and we will have medals for winners and runners up and some fun prizes throughout the evening, such as a bottle of wine for the first person to get a ‘slam’.

“If anyone needs a partner, they can call me on 01548 856098, and I will try and organise one for you, if not, pairs can just turn up on the day at around 6.15pm, ready for play to start at 6.30pm.”

Brian was the editor of the Shoreham Herald between 1969 and 1974, as well as being a regular broadcaster on sport with BBC Radio Brighton during this time.

In 1974 he became the group editor for South Hams Newspapers and was key in initiating or developing the Ivybridge Gazette, the Holiday Times, the Shopper series, the Totnes Gazette, the South Hams Handbook - now the directory, the Brixham News, Dart Television News, the Ivybridge Express and the Plympton Post.

After he retired he continued working, editing the English Bridge Union Magazine from home, and travelling up to Aylesbury every month.

He was also a fan of chess, music, antiques, coins, stamps, gardening, DIY, youth work and sport and was a stalwart of Kingsmen Barbershop Chorus.

Brian died on April 1, 2017, and was survived by his wife Tess, their two children Susy and Matt, and their grandchildren Maisie, Eilidh, Daniel and Joel.