Gidea Park & Romford Cricket Club

Very sad news that George passed away on Sunday evening 2nd September at the age of 85 after a short illness. George was one of the very best umpires and a great clubman! He was last at the ground in June for a President's lunch when the 1st XI were at home, and he will be sadly missed by all at and around the club who knew him. 

The funeral is on Wednesday 3rd October at Chelmsford Crematorium and followed by a final cricket tea at the County Ground, Chelmsford.

George joined GPR in 1976 and stood for the 1st XI in the League and on Sundays up until his duties as a steward for Essex CCC naturally took precedence (and we also saw the introduction of the League umpires' Panel at about the same time in the early '90s). It is fair to say that one never queried George's decisions and they were always made with full consideration, and he had an easy manner that defused any angry bowler (including famously Merv Hughes in a "competitive" league game in 1983 at Gallows!) and kept full control on the field. George stood for Essex 2nds, Minor Counties and schools; he made brief appearances in 1st Class matches at the County Ground when one or other umpire had to leave the field; he was an examiner and instructor for the ACU&S and a life member of the ECBACO. He loved cricket and he was highly respected wherever he went, a true gentleman. George was nominated and made the final short-list for a Lifetime Achievement Award and duly attended the event at Lord's this year, further recognition of his enduring abilities.

We will miss him around the club and are thankful for all the happy memories of a true friend in cricket!