Ron Napper's Obituary
The name of Ron Napper may have escaped the club's honours list although not for want of trying. Ron displayed all the characteristics of a successful, committed golfer but it was outside the frontiers of Church Lane that he established a reputation as 'Mr Bletchingley' with interests and influence covering almost every aspect of village life for more than 20 years. A low key approach to challenges attracted support, praise and pressure to do more. Ron moved to Bletchingley from the world of banking where he was an assistant manager in a Barclays branch and along with his wife Pat set up a post office that became a hub for business as well as gossip. The Nappers quickly and smoothly plugged into Bletchingley life and found themselves in demand to make a contribution to community issues. Ron was involved at an early stage in a campaign with Geoff Moore, fellow Bletchingley golfer, to save Bletchingley's Neighbourhood Watch set-up but the widening portfolio and illness limited his golfing exposure and Bletchingley membership. His financial background groomed him ideally to take up the role of treasurer at St Mary's Church and later provide more financial stability for the local drama group. Ron supported the creation of youth groups while Pat had responsibility for establishing transport links for the young, a commitment that still keeps her busy. The Napper contribution to Bletchingley has an important social dimension, now regarded as a bigger priority for rural communities. At the same time it has been accompanied by a friendly approach that earned Ron reputation as the 'quiet deliverer' on and off the course.
Accredited to Roland Gribben
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