Donald Wood, a fine servant who dedicated his life to Linthwaite Cricket Club for more than 60 years, has died. He was 91.
Donald’s passing represents the end of an era at Linthwaite cricket club as he, along with his great friend Derek Cowgill who passed away in 2019, ran the club in almost all departments during a challenging period for the Manchester Road club in the last twenty years. In fact, as recently as last summer, Wood was still preparing wickets ahead of the weekend, such was his devotion to his club.
As a cricketer, he was predominantly an upper order batsman for Linthwaite. He achieved his highest score, a 78no in 1966 and appeared in the league handbook averages on five occasions. After his playing days, he loyally stayed at the club and became club secretary for years before turning his hand to coaching. He passed on his wisdom to many of the Linthwaite CC juniors over the years with coaching, many of whom play around the league.
He received two major league honours during his time. A Lady Sykes Candlestick was awarded to him towards the end of his playing career in 1972 and in 2012 he received the league’s biggest personal honour; the F.R. Stallard Cup for his services to Linthwaite throughout his life.
It wasn’t just cricket where he held a deep involvement. Donald was well known in local football circles too, He was secretary at Laund Hill YMCA, taking over as junior secretary as far back as 1960 and was elected Chairman and then President. The FA presented him with an award for 50 years service in the game back in 2013.
The league would like to pass on their sincere condolences to Linthwaite Cricket Club and of course to Donald’s family. He will be sadly missed by us all.
