Last Friday 25th April we said goodbye to two of the clubs oldest former players - Michael Board age 93 and Barry Dawson aged 99 – club archivist Kevin Curran pays tribute to them here.
“Mike a quiet and humble man lived on the East Budleigh road. Most locals will remember with joy and envy Mikes fantastic vegetable garden and more recently wildflower garden which fronted the road. Mike had played for The Otters team (later renamed as the 2nd xl) throughout the 1960s, frequently alongside his talented son Russell who was Colt of the year in 1968. Sadly, Russell died of cancer in 1971 when Mike for several seasons gave up the game. He later returned to play for the club again. Mike frequently also helped with maintenance and repairs on the pavilion.
For over 60 years the name Dawson has been synonymous with Budleigh Cricket Club. Most members will think of Ray who gave 40 years of service as a player, committee man and was then groundsman until the end of last season. Younger brother Bobby also comes to mind a former Budleigh and Devon County Club captain and eight times the clubs leading scorer. However, first on the Budleigh cricket scene was Father Barry (pictured). After a long career as one of Exmouth’s top players, in 1963, Barry, at age 37, moved to finish out his playing days at Ottermouth. The following season he was high up in the batting list and topped the bowling averages. He went on to play for several more seasons and for several years thereafter helped around the club particularly with the ground for which he was recognised by the club as an Honorary Life member. Into his 80s Barry could often still be seen rolling the square. Members express their deepest condolences to Ray and Bobby and to the relations of Michael Board”.