On SATURDAY, November 7, with the very kind permission of Shobrooke Cricket Club an amanogawa (Japanese) cherry blossom tree was planted in the club grounds in memory of two very dedicated young cricketers.
One was Steven (Stumpy) Clarke, son of Margaret Cliff, brother of Tricia, Tina and Tracy, husband of Mandy (Fey) and dad to Jessica.
He was tragically taken from us at only 42 years of age after a day of playing golf, his other great sporting passion. He was also keen on snooker and darts.
The other young man, Maurice Turner, taken in 1954 when he was 19 years old, was brother to Margaret, Francis, June, Mavis, Carol and Beryl and father to Wendy (Osbourne).
Maurice was also a keen sportsman, playing football for Cheriton Fitzpaine and cricket for Shobrooke, alongside present cricket club member Jack Fey (Mandy's dad), who is still very active in the club today.
The planting of the tree was a reflective time, with fond memories, for all of us.
The ceremony was watched by a large gathering of families.
We all thank Roger Jones who, on behalf of the cricket club, said a few words of remembrance and Pete Turner for his help in arranging the event.
Margaret and Alan Cliff
25 The Lodge
Western Road
Crediton
Editor's footnote: Due to an unfortunate "blip" in the printing of the original letter it appeared with some errors, for which we apologise.