Yesterday I represented the club (along with former stalwarts Gary Hunt, Paul Morrison and Simon Rogers) at the funeral of Jack Watling in Barnstaple, Devon. Jack died suddenly in September at the age of 65.

Jack (real name Mervyn, but known throughout the club solely as Jack) was a founder member of the club, bowling the first delivery in the club's history.

For 15 years he was a lynchpin of of our batting line up and could be relied upon to take wickets. In 247 matches, he scored 4693 runs and took 164 wickets.

His top score of 147 remained a club record for 30 years.

Whilst the club records will recall his quality as a cricketer, those that played with him will cherish the memory of his endless humour and devilment. He was at the core of beginning of Didcot Cricket Club both on and off the field, and will be missed by all of those of that shared that era with him.

Our condolences to his wife Ann and son Alex.