TRIBUTES have been paid to a former captain of Andover Cricket Club who sadly passed away earlier this month.

Jim Tibenham, who captained the Andover cricket club in the late 1960s, passed away on June 6, just five short of his century.

Andover Cricket Club said they are saddened to learn about the passing of Tibenham.

Former Andover captain Keith Williams paid tribute to Tibenham and said the former captain instilled a “typical Yorkshire grit” to the Andover Cricket Club.

“A real character, sadly missed,” Mr Williams said.

“He captained Andover CC in the late 1960s. Hailing from Sheffield, he instilled a typical Yorkshire grit to the side, but always insisted that we enjoyed playing the great game.

“I was always told that the Andover Cricket Club colours were those of Yorkshire, no doubt influenced by Jim.

“Off the field he would have us in fits of laughter with his embellished tales of previous matches and

players that took part.”

Tibenham was a medium pace bowler and a lower order batsman.

Mr Williams said: “Jim's wife Fay and daughter Susan would be at London Road most home games helping to provide legendary teas. Sadly, Susan passed away at a very young age.

“After retiring from playing, Jim became a vice-president and would attend special occasions at the club.”

Tibenham lived in Wolversdene Road until his wife Fay passed away a few years ago, and then moved into the centre of town.