The Oxfordshire Lawn Tennis Association are already discussing how to honour John Parsons after his death earlier this week.

The Oxford-based journalist was a vice-president of the county, and moves are afoot to recognise his services.

Chairman Andrew Parsons (no relation) said honouring the Daily Telegraph writer would be a fitting tribute.

"We have not discussed what we will do yet, but certainly a junior tournament and/or a trophy would be my immediate thoughts," he said.

"Although he had moved away from Oxford to become the Godfather of British tennis, as many have named him, John never forgot where his roots were."

Glowing tributes have been paid by tennis legends, with many other local people phoning our offices to express their sadness.

Former Oxford City chairman Mick Woodley knew Parsons from his schooldays, and used to watch matches with him at City's old White House Ground.

"At the club's celebration dinner before the FA Vase final, John told a lovely story about when Sampras was knocking up with Agassi before the US Open final at Key Biscayne," Woodley said.

"With John on tenterhooks on the outcome of City's semi-final, second leg with Belper Town, over the public address system an announcement came: 'Mr Parsons, you will be pleased to know you are going to Wembley'."

Robert Hawes lived a few doors away from Parsons in Glanville Road, Cowley, and remembers his street receiving a newsletter, written by the budding journalist, when he was just ten.

"It was excellent, and it was obvious what he wanted from a young age," he said.