NETBALL: TRIBUTES have been paid to one of the founders of the South Essex Thurrock Netball Association league.

Marlene Morton-Holmes, 65, from Tilbury, passed away on August 19 after losing her battle with cancer.

Marlene played an integral part in setting up the league in the late sixties, and her own team, Barnards, have played in the league since 1972.

In 1994 Marlene became the results secretary for Thurrock’s junior league, going on to become league secretary in 2004.

She retired from playing netball herself a few years ago, after nearly fifty years, but was still involved in the sport through her team and the league, serving as results secretary on the committee since 1988.

SETNA chairman Joanne North said: “Marlene was an amazing person, a special friend, and a lady with a vibrant personality whom we will miss so very much.

“We will never forget Marlene Morton-Holmes and we will ensure her name lives on for those who will follow in the future.”

Netballers and umpires in Thurrock paid tribute to Marlene with a minute’s silence held before each team’s opening game of the season. The junior league’s open rally at Hassenbrook School in Stanford-le-Hope, on October 10, has also been renamed in Marlene’s honour.