We are sorry to announce the passing of club stalwart Robin Lavery.
On behalf of everyone at Thorverton Cricket Club we offer our deepest condolences to his wife Sue and two sons Tom and Nick at this difficult time.
Robin joined the club in 1977 having secured a new role with Westbrick Engineering as marketing director. His lodgings happened to be in Thorverton so he signed up little knowing the contribution he would go on to make. His wife Sue and their two boys Tom then 9 and Nick then 7 soon followed from Stokenchurch Bucks.
Keen to get the boys and the other youngsters involved with cricket Robin took on the running of the colts and soon came to realise that for the club to flourish a second Saturday XI was needed. Stepping down from opening the bowling with club legend Mike Denford Robin formed and led the 2nd XI for many years. In so doing he has provided many a cricketer with an opportunity to play competitive Saturday league cricket which otherwise might not have been available to them. Quite the legacy which many have to thank Robin for.
Fondly known as the “Laughing Lancashire man” a tribute to Robin roots his influence across the club was indelible and long lasting. A tough and uncompromising player yet someone with that knack of getting the best out of his teammates. It was not therefore unsurprising that Robin readily took on the leadership of the Saturday 2nd XI. Instrumental in leading the second XI for many years Robin enjoyed providing the opportunity for those colts he had nurtured into playing competitive league and senior cricket particularly his two sons Tom & Nick.
Reflecting on Robins passing club President Charlie Andrews said:
“Robin was a “clubman” through and through and a man who knew his own mind. He was not without an opinion or two which often he was happy to share with you whether you wanted to listen or not. Robin stayed in regular contact with the club after his retirement from playing and it was always heartening to see him walk through the gates. He will be missed but not forgotten.”
We will all miss Robin but be assured those that knew and played with him will keep his memory alive for many years to come.
We have been asked to share that the funeral is on Friday 6th November at 12 noon at Holy Cross church (Crediton Parish church) and afterwards in the Boniface Centre. EX17 2AH.
Rest In peace Robin and thank you for all that you contributed to Thorverton Cricket Club.
Back row (left to right) – Simon Molineux, Ollie Greenslade, Sam Fice, Charles Kislingbury, Robin Lavery, Ivor Banks, Alan Symons (umpire),
Front Row – Max Sercombe, Matty Ray, Andy Stirling, Jock Spry, Shaun Hussey.
