CRICKET club stalwarts from across Kent were honoured at the St Lawrence ground when former England spin bowler Derek Underwood presented this year’s Alan Albury Awards.

Created in memory of Alan Albury, the late chairman of the Kent Cricket Board and a life-long supporter of recreational cricket in the region, the awards recognise long service to grass roots cricket clubs.

The qualifying mark for this year’s pick was approximately 40 years service so the 11 people who received their awards in Canterbury from Kent president Derek Underwood, were undoubtedly worthy recipients.

They were: Jack Harris (Old Gravesendians CC) Club secretary since 1956 who still watches the club. Gordon Jarman (Northdown CC) A founder member since 1954 who has been captain, secretary, fixture secretary and match secretary. Pam Jarman (Northdown CC) Organiser of the county’s indoor cup, assistant secretary to the AKCC from 1984-2001, secretary to the AKCC cricket committee and organiser of the Wiltshere Cup and Plate. John Knock (Leigh CC) A player of 40-years standing, club trustee and club secretary for 37 years. Bill Lacey (Tenterden CC) A wicketkeeper batsman and member since 1968, has been groundsman for 30 years. Wally Laker (Elham Valley CC) Former opening bat and spin bowler turned youth coach, a club member for 60 years. Peter Lawrence (City of London CC) One-time secretary, treasurer, fixture secretary, groundsman, umpire and scorer, who still prepares the teas. Hilda Matthews (Stone CC) Has missed one game in 47 years as the club’s tea-maker extraordinary. Len Morris (Horton Kirby CC) Manager of Kent’s title-winning Over-50s side and KCB committee member representing Gravesend and Dartford. Hohn Thirkell (Linton Park CC) A former captain, secretary and fixture secretary, the club’s groundsman for the past 30 years. Fred Wilson (Deal Victoria and Barnes Close CC) A founder member of Deal Victoria since 1950 and club secretary for 46 years.