This obituary appears courtesy of Matthew Taylor, Grantham Journal

Tributes have been paid to a table tennis legend in the Grantham area. Russell Winfield passed away on Friday, April 10, aged 59.

With wife Jo, Russell had four children. His eldest, Ed and Hannah are twins, as well as younger siblings Frazer and Emily, all of whom are players in the Grantham Table Tennis League.

His children clearly shared Russell’s passion for table tennis, as he coached all four of them in the sport. Three of them reached national finals under their father’s tutelage.

Russell was also a long-standing player himself, as well as the role of organiser for the Grantham Table Tennis League. He was heavily involved in coaching and developing table tennis at local and county level.

Ken Wingad, of the Grantham league, gave a glowing tribute. He said: “The Grantham Table Tennis League has lost a well known and liked player and organiser, Russell Winfield, who passed away on Good Friday.

“The league and players offer their sincere condolences to Russell’s wife and four children who all play in the league.

“Russell was a larger than life character, liked by everyone and much appreciated for his organising behind the scenes.

“Russell will be sadly missed by the league, the players and all the Grantham table tennis family.

“Russell has been a much loved table tennis coach, player, organiser and fan of the game for over 20 years.”

One of Russell’s proudest moments was as a torch bearer for the 2012 London Olympics.