Rev Roger’s table tennis challenge at Embsay (From Craven Herald)

Rev Roger’s table tennis challenge at Embsay

9:00am Saturday 2nd March 2013 in News

The Rev Dr Roger Walton, the Methodist Church’s West Yorkshire District Chairman, threw down the gauntlet – or rather bat – to take on over-50s table tennis players at Embsay Methodist Church.

Dr Walton, a keen table tennis player and qualified coach, is raising money for Touchstone, a Bradford city centre organisation which brings people of different faiths together and is creating a new base at the former MacGory’s Bar in Easby Road.

Dr Walton said: “Building respect and understanding between different faiths is at the forefront of disciple-ship and the work of Touchstone is exemplary in this field.”

The Embsay group presented Dr Walton with a cheque for £240, raised from its members, a gift from the church and a soup lunch which was served on the day. Roger’s wife Marion, and Barbara Glasson, Touchstone’s team leader, also came along to support the cause.

David Allison, for the group, said: “This was great fun – I think we all enjoyed losing! Roger showed us a DVD with ‘the 10 best table tennis shots’ on it – but we decided none of us was fit enough to try them!

“He did give us some individual coaching, which was great. “It was a very enjoyable afternoon and we were happy to support such a good cause. We might challenge him to a re-match after some practice!”

To sponsor Dr Walton, visit mydonate.bt.com/events/touchstonetabletennischallenge