The Bradford Premier League have led the condolences after the passing of hugely popular umpire Bill Dove.
Bill was officiating games right up until the end of last season, taking charge, alongside Philip Allinson, of Bradford & Bingley’s final-day victory at home to Methley on September 3.
B&B’s wicket-keeper batsman that day, the experienced Matthew Duce, happily posed with Bill after the end of the match, and that lovely photograph serves as a fitting tribute to the beloved umpire.
The Bradford Premier League, who shared that image on their socials, also wrote: “It is with sadness the league and the Match Officials Association have learned of the death of umpire Bill Dove.
“Our thoughts are with his family.”
Lee Goddard, a first-class cricketer for both Derbyshire and Durham, as well as a Bradford Premier League legend thanks to his exploits at New Farnley, wrote: “Really sad news. RIP, Bill. A great guy.”
Richard Pyrah, a long-time servant of Yorkshire and a key part of the Cleckheaton line-up in recent years, added: “Great bloke…RIP Bill.”
It has been a sad few days off the field for those associated with the Bradford Premier League, with Division One outfit Batley also reeling after the passing of popular club official Ahmed Daud on Tuesday.
The club paid tribute to him on X, formerly known as Twitter, writing: “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved Ahmed Daud, a Batley club legend and stalwart.
“We will miss Ahmed’s jovial personality and smile and his dedication to the club over the years has been monumental.
“May his soul rest in peace.”
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