EFA Centenary ArtEFActs: Graham Turnbull Trophy

Graham Turnbull was Treasurer (1972-1995) and Chairman (1980-1985) of the Eton Fives Association before his untimely death in 1995.

An Etonian and self-confessed ‘third pair player’, Graham joined the EFA in 1964, running what became the Alan Barber Cup competition for many years before turning the EFA into “a smoothly running machine” as Treasurer. He initiated the process that eventually led to the EFA’s charitable status.

The Graham Turnbull Trophy started in 1996 and is for pairs consisting of one current and one former pupil from the same school, although coach/pupil pairs are also possible. The trophy, donated by Graham’s widow Kitty, was commissioned from noted silverware and jewellery designer Theo Fennell and shows the evolution of the Eton Fives ball.

From lowest to highest, the three balls on the left were manufactured by Malings of London and Gradidge’s, and comprise cork cores wrapped with felt, tied with twine, and covered in hand-sewn kid (goat) leather. Second from the right is a 1970s Rugby Fives ball made by Jabez Cliff of Walsall; its core has been soaked in liquid rubber and its seams have been glued. The final ball is a current Eton Fives ball, made from a rubber and cork composite, and manufactured in a 17-stage process.

The EFA ball has been supplied by Price of Bath since 1977, when its Managing Director, Derek Price, took a personal interest in the project. Now in his 90’s, Derek is still involved in the day-to-day running of the family business, which is overseen by his daughter, Louise.