TRIBUTES have been paid to a true stalwart of local cricket and Netherfield Cricket Club in particular who has passed away this week.

Wilf Anderson, 85, was a lifelong supporter and a life member of Netherfield who also scored for the club, and he also served on the committee for many years as team manager.

In his later years he became a long serving and much respected Northern League umpire who became a life member of the league’s Umpires’ Association.

And when he retired from umpiring, Mr Anderson continued to be involved by not only attending games regularly at Parkside Road but also helping out with refreshment and drinks for the players.

In addition, he was also a dedicated supporter of local cricket in general and in addition to being a stalwart at Netherfield, such was his appetite and love for the game he would often also watch Netherfield’s great rivals Kendal, where he was also a member.

A former K Shoes employee, Mr Anderson was always seen at games with his great friend and fellow umpire Len Cornthwaite, who passed away some time ago.

“It’s a very sad day for all Northern Cricket League followers,” said Netherfield CC secretary Ian Heath.

“He was an old school, very polite gentleman who everybody at Netherfield loved.

“ In his latter years he helped on match days at Parkside Road with drinks and supporting the teams.

“Wilf was a great servant not just to Netherfield but to cricket in the area and he will be greatly missed.”

And a message on Netherfield CC’s Facebook page also paid tribute to Mr Anderson, noting that “Wilf will be remembered as a lovely polite gentleman.”

Northern League umpires’ secretary Roy Booth said Mr Anderson was a very popular figure and everyone connected with the Northern League was saddened to hear of his death.

“We were so sorry to hear of Wilf’s passing,” said Mr Booth.

“He was a greatly respected figure in umpiring circles and a wonderful servant of the league.”

Mr Anderson’s funeral will be held at Beetham Hall Crematorium on Monday, March 11 at 12.30pm followed by refreshments at Netherfield CC.