I can never not remember Alan as part of our extended family. My Nan and Grandad Edna and Bob would marvel at the amount of washing that tennis produced, when Jo and Alan stayed with them. And that custard was what Alan and Jo asked for pudding as a favourite as you don’t get real custard in hotels.

Watching as Alan coached Jo we could see that he fearlessly believed in Jo and was a wonderful mentor and friend. It has been wonderful hearing about so many young players who have been encouraged by Alan. A true hero to the tennis world.

Getting to know him myself a bit better in the past few years I realised quite how competitive he was. Not knowing really how to play the card games, I swore to avenge my catastrophic loss at cards next time I saw him. I shall be practicing Alan for when we meet again. He was always willing to give his all at everything, even ABBA, which I think he enjoyed really. We will miss your cheeky smile and enthusiasm for life. Love Amanda and Jen xx