John Heslam was made a Life Member of the Cricket Club at the General Committee Meeting last week. This acknowledged JQH’s massive contribution dating back to 1980.
John spent 36 years on the Committee; 25 as Club Chairman. He became Club Captain in 1985 when Reed was building a competitive side that recorded numerous promotions and cup triumphs during his tenure. Latterly, he also skippered the Second XI when several Colts, whose teams he also successfully managed, were first introduced to playing “Open-Age” Cricket matches. Many of those youngsters now form the backbone of the current Senior XIs.
Off the field, John was instrumental in planning the construction of extensions on our super pavilion and under his leadership and as Fundraising Officer he secured thousands of pounds in sponsorship and grants from various sources. He also procured everything from carpet tiles to fire doors, and from safes to lorry loads of concrete and building materials for those extensions, ensuring all tasks were completed on time and on-budget.
This short summary of his association with the Club does not scratch the surface of JQH’s commitment to RCC and his significant influence on its history. Life Membership is in recognition of those forty years’ of service. Thank you John.
Peter G. Baker. Honorary Secretary, Reed CC November 2020.
