Yvette Asscher, Peter Davidson, Peter Dethick & Joyce Davidson

Peter gave a fascinating talk about his career in sport and brought along a number of precious photographs to show to the club as well as an historic medal won by his father in the 1932 cup for playing in the winning team, Newcastle United, against Arsenal.

Peter's father was a professional footballer in the days when there were fixed salaries and Peter described the sheer hard work involved in keeping in the top rank of such a challenging profession.

Peter also explained how he, as a sixteen year old and a good amateur player, found that his father had booked him to play for Manchester United's second team and how he walked onto the pitch and played in front of a crowd of thirty thousand.

Above: The Sunderland team, Peter Davidson, 2nd row 5th from right

Peter told a number of anecdotes about his contact with the famous figures of that era like Sir Matt Busby but explained that he had to make the difficult choice between a secure job and a complete commitment to sport and decided on a career in dentistry -  but funded his studies by playing professional football at the same time, playing for Sunderland.

After National service Peter took up golf and found that he had a natural talent.  This led him on to be appointed as selector for the England, and subsequently the British teams.

Peter Davidson with the Illustrated Gold Vase and the Berkshire Trophy

Peter explained how much he had enjoyed his sport and drew a parallel between this and Rotary - both depended on working as a member of a team but leading to great satisfaction.

Shepperton Rotary Club's Sports Specialist, Stan Kerr, gave a warm vote of thanks and the club expressed its appreciation with hearty applause.

We were also privileged to have Philip Ellis, ADG, as a visitor.  Philip came in his capacity as past Chair of District Foundation to thank Shepperton for their efforts on the Sinebhongo housing project and to give a short update on progress.

Above: Bob Boyle (left) next to Philip Ellis who is looking at the camera.