David Kemp: 1928-2021

Kent Cricket is saddened to learn of the death of former Club Chairman & President, David Kemp, at the age of 92.

David had a lifelong association with Tonbridge School and with Kent County Cricket Club. He was educated at Tonbridge from 1942-47, and, in his final two years, played in the school’s First XI with Colin Cowdrey.

After qualifying as a solicitor, he returned to teach at Tonbridge in 1956. Cowdrey’s three sons – Chris, Jeremy and Graham – were all in David’s boarding house at Tonbridge, from which he retired as Acting Headmaster in 1990.

He was a Member of Kent Cricket for many years before taking an active role on its Committee, becoming Club Chairman from 1994-1998, and was the Club’s President in 1992. He also served as Master of the Skinners’ Company and became a governor of his old school.

David was a well loved and respected figure in Kent, and around cricket grounds everywhere. He was a great listener and his wise counsel was always sought after and valued.

He will be much missed by everyone associated with Kent Cricket. He leaves his wife Marion and two sons, Will and Peter.