Many of you will have known John or “The Quiff” as he was affectionately known, but, for those that didn't, John set up the Earlswood Cricket Club Junior Section 35 years ago. He is the reason so many memories were made and so many friendships formed over the years and he leaves behind a legacy that many could only dream of.

Earlswood Cricket Club was a huge part of his life and he was so proud of what the club has become and has achieved over the years. He continued to talk about it until the very end.

Many ex-juniors will recall his famous phrases “Last one to that tree and back”, "run hard", "play straight" and for every new young cricketer “The 4 H’s of cricket … a cricket ball is Hard, if it Hits you, it will Hurt you and you will have to go to Hospital”. And, of course, you will never see an ex- junior coached by John with their hands in their pockets!

John was an inspiration to many and whilst his passing is very sad, we have comfort knowing that his legacy will continue to live on through Earlswood Cricket Club and those juniors that find enjoyment playing our special game, at our special club. As he once said “It might only be a shed in a field…. But it’s OUR shed, in OUR field!”

We will share details of his funeral in due course.

Best wishes

The Snipe Family.