Kingsteignton judo club mourns death of founder
TRIBUTES have been paid to the founder of a South Devon judo club who was found dead at his home.
Mike Andrews, 54, who lived in Ideford Combe in Kingsteignton, formed Kingsteignton's WBB Judo Club more than 30 years ago with Raymond Voisey and Mike Farley.
A minute's silence was held for Mr Andrews when Kingsteignton Athletic Football Club played Staverton at the weekend.
Malcolm Wildman, chairman of Kingsteignton Athletic Football Club, said: "One of our players is the son of Ray Voisey, who helped set up WBB Judo Club. They obviously knew him very well.
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"Mike was a prominent man in Kingsteignton and we thought it was something we should do as a mark of respect."
On the judo club's Facebook page, judo friends and parents of the children he coached have said how well loved and respected he was within the local community.
"I know that his legacy will continue in the hearts of our children," WBB Judo Club posted on the web page.
Others have said he 'was such a lovely man'.
One parent said: "He taught my eldest. He was currently teaching my middle one and even had my two-year-old on the mat. He will be greatly missed by so many. I would like to send my love to his family at this tragic time."
Another tribute said: "32 years ago two young men started WBB Judo Club. They have had a huge influence to many children in those years. In some cases they been a huge part of people's lives. On Friday night our family judo club lost Mike Andrews. Words can't describe how much you will be missed, thanks for the memories."
Mr Andrews' family are too upset to talk about the tragedy. He had various jobs, including transport manager for Torbay Hospital.
A spokesman for South Devon Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, which Mike worked for, said:"We are all saddened by the news of his death. He had many friends in the NHS who will miss him very much.
"Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Mike's family, friends and colleagues at this terribly sad time."
Police confirmed they were called to his home at 3pm on Friday. An inquest, which opened on Tuesday, said Mr Andrews was found with a shotgun wound to his head. A note was found at the scene, the hearing was told.
His body was identified by his wife, Caroline.
The inquest was adjourned to a date to be fixed.
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