It is with great sadness that I announce that Dan Rawlings, a member of the Vale Petanque Club, has passed away. Dan sadly died last Sunday, 20th July, from a sudden heart attack. His wife, Trish, was working away, and he was at home with his two daughters, Sophie and Emma.

Daz, Didier, and Joe have known Dan for many years; this is a massive loss for them. However, they, along with their wider group, wish to continue playing petanque normally, as they believe Dan would want them to.

Dan played regularly in the League with his team and qualified with them to play in the Inter-Regional Championship later this year. He also recently played in the Home Nations Qualifier, where he just missed qualifying with his team.

On behalf of the WPA, our hearts and thoughts are with Trish, Sophie, Emma, and Dan’s entire family at this difficult time. We also extend our deepest sympathies to everyone at the Vale Petanque Club, where Dan will always hold a special place in their memories.