ON a glorious bright and sunny Monday morning (June 27) and after more than 70 years of service to his Club, Bill Matten played out his final innings at Sandford Cricket Club.

Friends and family gathered at Creedy Park from 9am onwards and by the time the hearse arrived at the ground more than 100 people were in attendance.

The hearse was slowly driven to all parts of the ground taking occasional stops. The wicket was decorated with stumps, bat, helmet and gloves and the score box proudly displayed the total 94 being the grand age Bill reached before declared out!

The floral tributes on the coffin were in the shape of bat and ball and in the blue and yellow colours of the Club.

After his final tour of the ground, friends and family went for a private ceremony at Exeter Crematorium.

A Service of Thanksgiving was then held at Sandford Parish Church before everyone returned to the Cricket Club for drinks and refreshments in the Bill Matten Pavilion.

The many people who gathered throughout the day at the many different times show the affection and regard that Bill was held in.

He may have gone from us but his legacy will live on for many years to come.

I know Sheila and family have been overwhelmed with all the support and messages sent since Bill left us and hope those present last Monday are testament to the incredible contribution Bill gave to so many during his lifetime.

Mike Canning