CYRIL FAZAKERLEY: AINSDALE CRICKET CLUB

Date: 13th October 2019

Ainsdale Cricket Club are incredibly saddened to report the passing of our former President, Cyril Fazakerley, at the age of 92.

The funeral service will be at St. John's, Liverpool Road, Ainsdale 1.00 pm Friday 25th October with a send-off, of course, at the cricket club following. All welcome.

Cyril became associated with Ainsdale 35 years ago as a "supporter" when his nephew, Eddie was making his way. Alongside Ed's father, John, they swiftly became known as Waldorf and Stadler for their critical support. Woe betide a dropped catch or fielding mistake within their vicinity.

Within a short period of time Cyril had become the 2nd team umpire, a position in which he served for over 25 years. Always pristinely turned out as befits a former military man, and with a fantastic sense of humour, an episode that sums him up was a game at Fleetwood Hesketh on a particularly hot day. Taking the pitch, collared shirt, tie, coat and hat as ever, Cyril was puzzled when Ben Swift came on the field to umpire for FWH in shorts and t-shirt.

CF - "What are you dressed as lad?"

BS - "It’s really hot, Cyril"

CF - "Palestine 1948 was hot, now get yer bloody coat on!"

Ben did without question.

It's also fair to say that, whilst been scrupulously fair, Cyril's interpretation of the Laws of the Game were occasionally eccentric although given his humour and humanity were hardly ever questioned by home and away teams alike. Games he umpired were invariably played in the best of spirits, at least in part due to his light touch.

Every now and then, well into his 60's, he would step in and play for the 2's when short and no other options were available. He would invariably take wickets at a parsimonious rate before declaring that he was "umpire only" next week.

In 1997 Cyril became President until our recent AGM when he stepped down due to his failing health.

To us at Ainsdale, a great character has left us. Young players, past players and contemporaries loved the man and will miss him immensely

RIP Cyril