MINCHINHAMPTON have marked 40 years of service by treasurer Steve Hooper with a special presentation.
Steve began his cricketing career at Uphill Castle, in Weston-super-Mare, before moving to Gloucestershire and taking on the role of balancing the books at Minch in 1980.
Chairman Justin Hodges said: “Steve took over from a gentleman who was Chief Exec of Stroud & Swindon Building Society so he had big boots to fill!
“He has since kept meticulous files, with all 40 years of accounts being stored neatly in his garage.
“Steve has been with the club long enough to see the pavilion/shed move three times, from next to the tennis courts, to under the trees – after it was wheeled over! – to its current, permanent, position.
“On the playing side, Steve was well-known for his long bowling stints in the 90s. He regularly bowled one end all innings – at a time when there were no limits for bowlers – and frequently racked up spells of 20-plus overs; he was a very canny left-arm bowler.
Steve was also a big factor in the late 90s behind the financing and building of the pavilion we are in today. Whilst Steve has called time on his innings, it should still be noted that he continues to make a big contribution to the upkeep of the playing field with his cutting of the grass boundaries.”
As a thank you for his tremendous service, Minch presented Steve with a print of the Cheltenham College ground by Jack Russell which the Gloucestershire CCC and England wicketkeeping legend personalised with a special message.
Steve, who is an avid Gloucestershire supporter, also received a copy of the Grenville Simons book A History of The Cheltenham Cricket Festival.
Steve is pictured receiving his gifts from Minchinhampton chairman Justin Hodges.