AS we embark on another season we say goodbye to an old friend of Yeoford Cricket Club (YCC), Leslie Stanbury.

Les’ funeral was held on April 13 and he was carried to his resting place by five club players, Paul Coren, Andy Coren, Matt Leach, Danny Uren, son Craig and ex-player, grandson Drew.

The service was conducted by Derek Coren and poems were read and names taken by Lyndsay Coren and Jackie Coren.

A sport-themed eulogy was given by Paul Coren.

These were all members of Yeoford Cricket Club, which showed the respect held for Les by the club.

Les went along to watch a game of cricket just over 30 years ago, and being a keen sportsman thought he would “give it a go”. For his 50th birthday Les’ family bought him a cricket bat and his association with YCC began.

Les was never more proud than when he played in the same team as his son Craig and grandson Drew.

He preferred to field in close proximity to the batsman so liked to don his old football shin pads for protection, something he continued to do when, in his late 70’s, Les became YCC resident umpire (but he was always available should the captain be short of players).

Les’ shin pads gave much laughter, albeit through sheer relief by the opposition, when the batsman played a straight shot hitting Les on the leg with an almighty crack, they feared the worst but were very relieved when they realised the “crack” was Les’ shin pads!

We will miss you Les, you were a loyal player, umpire and supporter of the club and your presence will be sorely missed by us all at YCC. RIP.

Jackie Coren

Secretary

Yeoford Cricket Club