THE funeral of former Kent spin bowler Richard Davis is to be held in Blean near Canterbury on Friday at the small church of St Cosmus and St Damian.

The only player to have appeared for five, first-class counties, Mr Davis died on December 29, aged 37, after a two-year illness.

Restricted church seating will limit the 11.30am service to immediate family and friends only, but Mr Davis’ brother-in-law and Kent captain, David Fulton, says the family has been overwhelmed by the messages of condolence.

He said: “The response since Dickie’s death has been truly remarkable and on behalf of Samantha and the family I’d like to thank all those who have taken the trouble to send cards, write of telephone.

“Sadly, St Cosmus isn’t large enough to cope with all those who would like to attend and we hope the public will understand the family’s wish to hold the service at their own community church rather than move to a larger venue.”

Family flowers only are requested but donations, if desired, can be made to the Samantha Dickson Research Trust, the major charity responsible for brain tumor research, c/o A Welch and Sons Funeral Directors, 94 Station Road, Herne Bay, Kent, CT6 5BQ.