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Teddy
Atkinson
Teddy
was a Fellow and Life Member of both the ISTD and IDTA. Those of you
who knew him will be saddened by the news of his passing in St Christopher's
Hospice after a brave fight against cancer.
Teddy's
passions were dancing and horses. He managed stables before being called
to National Service in the army. After the war it was dancing! Helping
in his mother's school in Selsdon, he nursed an ambition to dance in
competitions, but in order to do this he was required to be re-instated
as an amateur, which meant a suspension for one year; no teaching, competing
or medals. He used this period well by studying and practising Latin
American dancing. When the year had elapsed he took medals in Latin
and was the first male medallist to gain Gold Star in both Ballroom
and Latin in the ISTD.
Among
Teddy's numerous successes in Open Competitions, was the All England
Latin Championship in 1954, which he held for six years. In the same
year he tied for first place in the International at the Royal Albert
Hall.
He
then turned professional, qualifying in Ballroom and Latin, later followed
by four further subjects. He was always studying for more qualifications
and maintaining and improving his own dance, which he did with style
and feeling.
He
was a steward at the International for many years. He entered pupils
for thousands of medal exams with a 100% success rate, with many distinctions,
including special needs pupils. He was very proud of his achievement
with them.
Teddy
was a fine teacher and dancer with a bright and engaging personality.
His standards and principles were of the highest in teaching, dancing,
ethics, dedication and with a great generosity of spirit.
Teddy's
last appearances earlier this year were judging at the Forget-me-Not
Ball, sitting in his wheelchair.
Teddy
had a great character and personality and will be missed by so many.
Our most sincere sympathy goes to his wife, Doris and his son and daughter
Robin and Julie.
Joan
Kemp
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