Tributes to golfing legend

TRIBUTES have been paid to a well-known sports enthusiast who was responsible for setting up South Yorkshire Schools' Golf Association.

John Moss, who was married to wife Pat for 51 years, died at the age of 78 after a year of ill health.

A keen golfer and retired school teacher, Mr Moss, of Palm Hollow Close, Listerdale, made history when he formed the Association and was highly regarded for his work in encouraging youngsters.

His funeral took place St Cuthbert's Church, Herringthorpe, followed by a get together at Sitwell Park Golf Club where he was a member.

Pat (75), a fellow teacher, said of her husband: "He had an enthusiasm for life and his cup was always half full.

"His family was very important to him and he had many friends.

"He lived a very full life which was reflected by the number of people, from all walks of life, who attended the funeral as well as those who supported me and John throughout our lives."

Born in Carlton-in-Lindrick, Mr Moss grew up in Tinsley and attended the City Grammar School in Sheffield.

He taught at two schools before moving to Ecclesfield Grammar School where he was head of PE for 25 years before retiring in 1988.

It was during his time at Ecclesfield that John formed the South Yorkshire Schools' Golf Association.

Pat said: "He was a member of Tankersley Park Golf Club at the time and wanted to introduce golf onto the curriculum.

"That is what he did and he ran the association for more than 30 years, before retiring 18 months ago."

Mr Moss was also the secretary of Yorkshire Schools' Golf Association and for a time was manager of the England Schools' Golf Team and secretary of the senior section at Sitwell Park Golf Club.

A John Moss memorial results board will be unveiled at the home of SYSGA, Hickleton Golf Club, Doncaster, on March 25 when the next schools' championship will take place.

Pat said: "John was extremely grateful to Hickleton because they allowed all the South Yorkshire championships to be played there."

He was also a lifelong supporter of Sheffield United and a staunch supporter of Rotherham Titans, where he was a vice-president.

He was also a keen jazz fan and enjoyed caravan holidays in Cornwall.

In addition to Pat, he leaves three children and six grandchildren.