Note of Condolence: John Bentley (1942 - 2026)

We are sorry to announce the passing of John Bentley following a short illness. John was a player, team captain, Committee member and Vice President of Surbiton HC, and a touring Stroller until his body denied him playing further hockey. Thereafter, he was a loyal and regular supporter, and a fixture in the club bar.

One of John’s contemporaries recalls, “Whenever I played a home match, I remember him in the bar rather than on the field. In the days before astro it was easier to socialise with members of the other teams. We all played at the same time and John had a great knack of bringing those of us in the top team down to earth and was usually more interested in talking to our girlfriends than us! Always amusing, always good company, always with a pint in his hand - a great character. Without the interminable warm ups of today we seemed to have more time to socialise and more time in the bar!”

For those wishing to pay their respects, John’s Service of Thanksgiving will take place at midday on Friday 1st May at Christ Church, Church Street, Esher KT10 8QS

From all at the club, we send our condolences to John’s family and friends.