MONMOUTH Cricket Club’s members have paid tribute to former Leicestershire player, chief executive, secretary and manager Mike Turner MBE, who died last week.

Mr Turner was the grandfather of Monmouth’s first-team captain Ben Turner and the father of Mike Turner (junior), who skippered the second team in 2013.

Both of Monmouth’s senior teams held a minute’s silence in Mr Turner’s honour before their respective league matches against Cardiff Gymkhana in the Glamorgan and Monmouthshire League last Saturday.

Monmouth Cricket Club spokesman Martin Newell said: “Ian Morgan and I were lucky enough to spend the afternoon with Mr Turner when he visited the club on a match-day with his wife a few years ago and I presented him with a club tie during the tea interval.

“Mr Turner was a regular correspondent to Ian and I during our time in office, offering his advice and services in regards to grants and the new nets and other ways the club could move forward.

“Mr Turner sat at the top table of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Leicestershire County Cricket Club so we were thrilled and honoured when his numerous letters, e-mails, Christmas cards and suggestions came our way.

“Our heart-felt condolences go to Ben and Mike Jnr for their loss but also a huge thank you for introducing Ian and I to such an inspirational man.”

Mr Turner, who was 80 years old, had remained in touch with the club’s committee since his visit to the Sports Ground and was planning to visit Monmouth Cricket Club before the end of the season.

Many cricket clubs have been grateful for his advice on obtaining Grant Aid through the ECB and, earlier this month, he offered further support and guidance to Monmouth Cricket Club.