JOHN Chapman, who was associated with swimming and water polo for at least 50 years, died on April 25 at the Royal United Hospital, aged 71.

Mr Chapman, who was born in 1936 at the Mary Prideaux Hospital, now the Labour Club in Westbury, was life president of Westbury Amateur Swimming Club and had been county president during his lifelong love with the sport.

He had refereed swimming at national and international level and in later life also refereed water polo after he gave up playing.

John also played bowls after he was given lessons as a retirement present, a game he enjoyed.

During his younger days he played football for Westbury United FC with the great John Ateyo.

A keen sportsman ,he played table tennis and was selected as a hurdler for Wiltshire while at school.

He was an accomplished carpenter, having served his apprenticeship with the local firm of Holdaways.

Involved with the West End Baptist Chapel, where he was superintendent, his sense of duty and commitment often saw him helping with functions and as a backroom boy on many drama productions.

Mr Chapman was conscripted in the 50s and completed his national service in Cyprus.

As an honarary member of the Scout Association he was often seen with his wife Enid, who has been with the scouting movement for over 50 years, at numerous meetings and gatherings.

They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in November 2006.

He was a well liked and respected man who could be relied upon in times of trouble to help anyone in need.

Mr Chapman leaves his wife Enid, sons Brian and Paul and daughter Margaret, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

10:59am Thursday 1st May 2008

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