A CRICKET enthusiast who has give more than 60 years service to a dale club has received an OSCA.
Bernard Poole’s efforts for Raby Castle CC were recognised at the annual Outstanding Service to Cricket Awards.
The awards are organised each season by the Durham Cricket Board, in co-operation with Natwest Bank, to recognise the county’s most devoted volunteers.
The awards recognise the input of cricket club volunteers in the county, acknowledging their exceptional contributions and crucial role in shaping the game
Mr Poole, who lives in Staindrop, received his award from Durham County Cricket Club’s chief executive Tim Bostock.
Mr Poole has performed every volunteer role from first team captain to chairman at Raby Castle CC during his six decades at the club.
Raby Castle CC secretary Steve Caygill, said: “Although he stepped down from the club management committee last year, he is still involved cutting the outfield and attending every game – it’s in his blood.
“In his role as junior co-ordinator he has been responsible for developing dozens of young players with several of Raby’s current first team progressing from Bernard’s junior teams.”
He added: “Over the years he has had great success with funding partners, receiving grants for junior cricket as well as pavilion and ground improvements.
“His enthusiasm is infectious, with all his family members involved in both playing and undertaking important volunteer roles at Raby Castle Cricket Club.”
Mr Poole said he was “chuffed to bits” to have been nominated for the award.
He and wife Betty enjoyed a VIP day out at Durham CCC to collect the award.
