Daily Mail bridge writer Peter Donovan – whose column has run since 1966 – has died aged 89.
He was believed to be the longest serving daily bridge columnist in the English-speaking world.
Born in Yorkshire, he lived for decades close to the Mail's offices in Kensington. As well as his column, which ran for 57 years, he was known for his updates to the classic bridge book, Bridge is Still an Easy Game.
David Parry, his long-standing friend and co-author of the Collins Dictionary of Bridge Terms, said last night: 'Despite living in London since the 1960s, Peter remained a passionate Yorkshireman.
'He was known for his cantankerous yet affable nature and was devoted to cricket, beer and bridge in equal measure. His commitment to grassroots bridge and nurturing newcomers was unwavering.'
Daily Mail bridge writer Peter Donovan – whose column has run since 1966 – has died aged 89
He was known for his cantankerous yet affable nature and was devoted to cricket, beer and bridge in equal measure (Pictured: Lord's cricket ground)
Mr Donovan, who ran a marketing business when not writing about and playing cards, is survived by his French wife Michele, his sons Timothy, James and Christopher, and six grandchildren.
Nicknamed 'Toad' by close friends, he died last Thursday in his flat – known to his circle as 'Toad Hall'.
His ashes are to be scattered at Lord's cricket ground, where he had played a key role in the MCC bridge committee.
With his widow's blessing, Mr Donovan's final columns, written in advance, will appear in the Mail over the coming weeks.
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