TRIBUTES have poured in for for former England Test seam bowler Alan Igglesden - who has died aged 57. 

The former Woodhouse Grove sports centre manager, who finished his playing career with Bingley Congs in the Mewies Solicitors Craven League, has been called “an absolute inspiration” for the way that he battled a brain tumour and raised £300,000 for the Brain Tumour Charity. 

Igglesden played for Kent for 13 years, making more than 150 first-class appearances and taking 503 wickets, having made his county debut in 1986. 

He also represented England in three Test matches and four one-day internationals, taking eight wickets in all, including those of Mark Taylor and Steve Waugh on his debut in the 1989 Ashes Series. 

Igglesden was diagnosed with the inoperable tumour in 1999 after suffering an epileptic fit while playing minor counties cricket for Berkshire, and suffered strokes in 2018 and 2020, receiving end-of-life care in recent months. 

He was due to be the guest of honour at the Craven League’s annual dinner last month at the Rolls Royce Sports & Social Club in Barnoldswick, but was too ill to attend. 

However, in May he completed the Professional Cricketers’ Trust 5k, despite his severe disabilities, raising money for the organisation that supported him and his family in recent years.  

A statement from the Professional Cricketers’ Association read: “The PCA is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Alan Igglesden, who died peacefully at the age of 57 beside wife Liz, father Trevor and brother Kevin n the morning of Monday 1 November, whilst listening to his favourite musician Van Morrison. 

“An absolute inspiration to everyone he encountered, ‘Iggy’ was a true cricketing giant in Kent, where he spent his entire playing career. 

“Throughout his journey, Iggy’s strength and courage in the face of adversity were nothing short of inspirational. 

“Beloved by his students throughout his time in teaching, he went n to father one daughter, Beth, now eight years of age, as he built a family of his own alongside Liz.” 

Kent and England star Sam Billings tweeted: “Incredibly sad. An amazing human being who was so brave over the years. Will be sorely missed. Hero.” 

Former England captain Michael Vaughan said: “So sad. (He was) one of the game’s true gents.” 

Crystal Palace FC posted: “We are sad to learn of the passing of Palace fan Alan Igglesden. 

“Our thoughts go out to his friends and family.”