South Wales
Cricket Association
Established 1926
Obituaries
Denis Morgan
Llangennech Cricket Club/Former SWCA umpire
Over the past few seasons Llangennech Cricket Club has
suffered the loss of over a dozen faithful members, supporters and ex-players.
The latest of these was Denis Morgan, who died in January aged 82 following a
long illness.
Denis played his cricket mainly
for the 2nd XI in the 50s and 60s and as a wicketkeeper/batsman was
unable to break into the strong 1st XI of that time. He consequently
moved to try his luck elsewhere, playing for Dafen and Hendy.
He umpired in the SWCA between
1971 and 1979 and, as he could not drive, partnered the late Norman Charles, a
work colleague at the RN depot. He would often recall some of the matches in
which he officiated during that period, including a cup final, and how aware he
had to be of some of the tactics employed by players in attempting to deceive
umpires.
He joined the Llangennech
committee in 1993 where he was able to assist the development of younger players
by officiating in 3rd XI matches. He always had a good memory and if
he suspected that someone was playing it close to the edge, he would be
particularly watchful in the next match, however many years later it was.
As well as his love of sport
Denis was a keen walker and cyclist. His favourite area was mid Wales and hours
were spent as a family around the lakes at Llandrindod and Llanwrtyd and cycling
in the Elan Valley.
In 1985, after 33 years at the
RN, Denis was advised to retire to look after his wife Margaret who had
rheumatoid arthritis. They were determined to keep as active as they could and
they continued their love of mid Wales, travelling on the Heart of Wales line.
Denis became a full-time carer
for his wife as her health deteriorated and his involvement with Llangennech
Cricket enabled him to have a well deserved break while other family members
took their turn. Following Margaret’s death in 2006, Denis carried on with his
trips as best he could until a hip fracture a few years ago limited his mobility
and left him reliant on carers.
While confined to the house
Denis was keen to know Saturday’s results and a phone call early on a Sunday
morning was a regular occurrence. He was especially pleased and proud that
Llangennech secured promotion to division 1 last year, even though he had been
unable to see them in action and was looking forward to following their progress
in 2019.
Michael Davies
Briton Ferry Steel Cricket Club
Sadly, on 18th July 2018, Briton Ferry Steel
lost a Life Member and one of its major stalwarts, with the passing of Michael
Davies.
Born on 23rd September 1943, just a stone’s throw away from the Steel
ground, there was no doubt, as a youngster, that Michael would join the cricket
club. Thus, following the footsteps of his brother Jack, who was Captain of the
club, Michael progressed through the ranks to become a hard-hitting top order
batsman and excellent cover point fielder and was thoroughly respected by
opposition teams, always enjoying the camaraderie after the game.
After his playing days were over, despite becoming a very successful business
man spending a lot of time away, Michael never lost his association with the
club, serving on the Committee and eventually becoming Treasurer of the club, a
position he held until his passing away.
Upon retirement from work, he also volunteered to look after the general
appearance of the club.
He will be sorely missed by many of the local cricket community and our deepest
sympathies are extended to his wife Val and daughter Nicola.
Michael leaves us all with fond memories.
Leighton Bray
Briton Ferry Steel Cricket Club
After spending a period of time in care, Leighton passed
away on 27th November 2018, aged 87 years.
A former club Captain, he was a loyal clubman. A middle order batsman, spin
bowler and popular team member, one of his best innings was at home to
Pontardawe, when he was asked by the Captain to get runs quickly to set up a
declaration. He returned 35 minutes later, 114 not out.
When his playing days were over, he became coach to the youngsters at Briton
Ferry Town C.C., where both of his sons were members and helped the Town to
become very successful.
Our sympathies are extended to his wife Jean and his sons Gary and Ian.
Alan Jefford
Briton Ferry Steel Cricket Club
Alan sadly passed away on 1st December 2018 aged
75 years.
A very successful opening batsman and excellent slip fielder, Alan was an
important member of the successful mid to late sixties Steelworks side.
On retiring from cricket, Alan emigrated for a period of time, where he became a
successful golfer.
Upon his return, he became secretary of Basingstoke, Morriston & Neath golf
clubs.
He was also honoured with an award for his voluntary work in the local hospital
community.
Glan Hathaway
Briton Ferry Steel Cricket Club
Glan passed away in March 2018 after a fall at home and
unfortunately his wife passed away the following week.
A loyal wicket-keeper batsman, Glan played for Briton Ferry Steel throughout the
1960’s, travelling from Bridgend to fulfil his enjoyment playing for the club.
A very respected player, Glan will be missed by all at the club.