It is with great sadness that we share the news that David Hawkins passed away on 21st July 2026. David was a great supporter of both Bedfordshire Golf & The South East Group.
Born in Bristol, David enjoyed a distinguished career with Royal Mail, where he served as Head of Contract Operations, overseeing the movement of more than five million postal items by rail and air each day. He retired at the age of 62 after many years of dedicated service.
David was a highly respected and much-valued figure at Leighton Buzzard Golf Club. He served as Club Captain in 2011 and as Club President from 2013–14, having previously been Captain of The Millbrook Golf Club in 1994 before joining Leighton Buzzard four years later.
His influence extended well beyond his home club. David was a dedicated volunteer and administrator within the wider game, serving as President, Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of Bedfordshire County Golf Ltd. Through these roles, he made an outstanding contribution to golf across the county, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues, clubs and players alike. David lead the unification of the Mens and Womens county organisation a model adopted by many other counties in the country. His work was recognised resulting in Bedfordshire winning County of the Year in 2023. He also initiated the girls golf academy giving them the same opportunity as the boys. Bedfordshire now has a good number of girls with single figure handicaps.
Despite his many administrative responsibilities, David remained an enthusiastic golfer. He was a familiar face in competitions at Leighton Buzzard Golf Club, regularly enjoying success in events such as the Men’s Invitation Day and the Past Captains Trophy.
Away from the course, David was deeply committed to supporting the wellbeing of others. Most recently, he played a leading role in the creation of Fore Your Mind, a mental health awareness initiative designed to bring support, education and open conversation into the heart of the golfing community. The initiative received national recognition at the 2026 England Golf Awards, where he was acknowledged for its pioneering work in promoting mental health across the game. He was a tireless volunteer and life coach at Reclaim Life a mental health and wellbeing charity in Leighton Buzzard.
David’s passion for golf, his tireless service to the sport, and his unwavering commitment to helping others have left a lasting legacy. He will be remembered not only for his leadership and dedication, but also for his warmth, generosity and friendship.
Everyone in the Bedfordshire & the SEG golf family extends their deepest condolences to David’s family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.
