Jill is table tennis chief

The former European champion, who lives in Preston, takes over from Doreen Stannard.

Parker enjoyed a glittering career as a player, winning a Commonwealth Games gold medal on three occasions and was ranked inside the world’s top five at her peak.

A multiple national champion, Parker was unfortunate that her playing days coincided with table tennis not being an Olympic sport.

Originally from Surrey, Parker settled in the North West after marrying Preston man and fellow ex-England table tennis star Donald Parker.

Their daughter Katy was also a top-class table tennis player, while son Adam is the professional at Fleetwood Cricket Club.