The Shropshire cricketing family is mourning the death of Eric Marsh, who died in hospital last week.
Mr Marsh played regularly for the county side between 1964 and 1976. He was capped in 1972 and a member of the Shropshire side which won the Minor Counties Championship in 1973.
An opening batsman and leg break bowler, he played with distinction for Ludlow, Whitchurch and Oswestry.
He was one of the founder members of the Shropshire over 50s side and the first captain of the team. In latter years, he played a pivotal role in the organisation and running of the successful county veteran sides.
Born in Greenwich, London, Marsh was educated at St. Dunstan’s College where he quickly showed promise as a cricketer appearing for Kent IIs. Whilst studying Mathematics at Bristol University, he played for UAU and Somerset II.
On leaving Bristol, Marsh undertook a postgraduate course at Oxford University where he played a good number of first class games for the Dark Blues.
After graduating, Marsh pursued a teaching career, playing cricket for the county during the school holidays. He taught at Bedstone College, Dulwich College, Alleyns School and Ellesmere College where he was Master in Charge of Cricket and produced a number of very good sides.
A keen ornithologist, Marsh was a member of the Shropshire Wildlife Trust. He was also a keen follower of his boyhood football club, Charlton Athletic, and a regular visitor to The Valley during his retirement.
Paying tribute, Oswestry Cricket Club president John Hulme said: “Eric was a fine all round sportsman and unfailingly modest as to his achievements.
“He was technically a very correct batsman, always pleasing to the eye. He was also an excellent fielder as befitting an All England Rugby Five’s Champion, a title which he held for a number of years.
“Eric had a very deep knowledge and understanding of the game which he was always happy to share with any aspiring young player.
“As a sportsman, teacher and naturalist, he made a very valuable contribution to Shropshire life.
“Our thoughts are very much with his wife Jane and family at this sad time.”