Kindly written by Alison Melville
Sadly Scottish Fencing, and in particular Central Section, lost another stalwart when Andy Kettles died at the beginning of March.
I first met Andy when he started fencing at Stirling Fencing Club in 1994. From being an enthusiastic beginner Andy soon blossomed, winning the Scottish Novices (for adults) at both Foil and Sabre. Later he collected the Scottish Intermediate Foil trophy and also triumphed furth of Scotland when he was 3rd in the Northern Ireland Open. Andy was not shy of hard work and was often found at the beginning and end of competition weekends setting up or clearing away and his practical skills were also in great demand.
Andy had a mischievous side as shown by his liberal sharing of a hip flask with any “willing” competitor during team events at the Inverclyde tournaments of yesteryear. He always enjoyed being on-piste, whether fencing or skiing.
Later Andy turned to coaching, often helping George Smith at Stirling University and other local clubs.
In later years Andy suffered poor health and was unable to continue fencing. However his wife Mandy, and latterly his son Calum are well known in the sport – both as sabreurs and more recently in Mandy’s case as competition organiser. She was introduced to this role in the 1990’s when running competitions at Alloa Sports Centre, where Andy and Mandy’s cat Jerry would often visit to see how they were both faring!
At his funeral the range of Andy’s interests was apparent – from the piper echoing his love of music, to the fencing Guard of Honour; to the wearing of kilts showing his love of things Scottish and even the retiring collection in aid of Glenelg Mountain Rescue Team. A man of many talents.
I’ll remember Andy as a cheerful and helpful friend for whom nothing was too much bother. His grin was infectious and no-one could be glum when he was around.
Our best wishes go to Mandy, Calum, Eilidh and Clair at this difficult time.
