'True gentleman'- cricket league pays emotional tribute after President's death
“On a personal note, I have never met a nicer gentleman—someone who was always looking to help and mentor anyone who needed it. He helped juniors at Thornton overcome barriers so they could take part in a sport that he and they loved. “
A local cricket league has paid tribute to its Junior Section President and longtime volunteer, who has been described as a ‘true gentleman’.
The Palace Shield Cricket League is mourning the loss of Trevor Wilde, who sadly passed away earlier this week after a short battle with illness.
Alongside his role at the Palace Shield, Trevor was also the Club President of Thornton Cleveleys Cricket Club.
A spokesperson for the Palace Shield paid tribute to longtime volunteer Trevor: “Trevor was a true gentleman to all who met him. His contributions to cricket would be difficult to match, as for well over half a century he acted as a coach, a captain, a mentor, and most importantly, a friend to so many across the whole cricketing community.
“Trevor's home club was Thornton Cleveleys, where he was an off-spin bowler over a long career in which he won trophies and earned promotion many times. He was part of the three-time D Division championship teams in the early 1990s.
“Towards the end of the 1990s, Trevor helped develop the juniors at Thornton through their lower teams and Sunday cricket. Off the field, through Trevor's leadership, the club was able to buy the ground, extend the playing surface by purchasing the top field, and redevelop the clubhouse, future-proofing the club.
“When Trevor retired from banking, he took on more roles in wider cricket. He volunteered for the Chance to Shine programme, offering cricket to state school children.
“He was also instrumental in running the District Cricket programme in Wyre and later Lancashire as a whole. He leaves a massive void after 20 years as President of the Palace Shield Junior Section and 30 years of service to the Palace Shield.
“On a personal note, I have never met a nicer gentleman—someone who was always looking to help and mentor anyone who needed it. He helped juniors at Thornton overcome barriers so they could take part in a sport that he and they loved.
“He mentored many current League Committees, served as a constant sounding board for ideas, and always encouraged growth. Over recent months, Trevor fought bravely against illness. This week, his final innings came to a close, but he will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Trevor—a true gentleman.”