AN ‘inspirational’ former cricketer and club stalwart has died.

Colin Charnock, who was 78, was the longest-serving volunteer at Darwen Cricket Club having spent 66 years with the Towers.

Up until his death the dad-of-two and grandad-of-one was the club’s secretary, a position he held for 30 years.

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Before that he was a wicketkeeper and bowler and served as captain of the Birch Hall club’s third team.

His son Adrian, 43, said the club was what his dad lived for.

He said: “He has been an inspiration to me and my family which anyone can see from how cricket has passed down the generations.

“I played cricket and so does my son Declan now.

“Of course it wasn’t just the cricket but me and my sister Elaine looked up to him for how to live our lives really.

“You always try and achieve everything your parents have and even more.

“He was Darwen Cricket Club through and through.

“He lived and breathed it.”

Mr Charnock’s commitment to the Birch Hall cause began at the age of 12 when he used to watch action across to the ground from his bedroom in Blackburn Road.

As secretary he contributed to the club’s progression which has most recently involved a move from the Northern League into the Lancashire League.

Away from the club he was also a football referee, a keen photographer and had a passion for horse racing.

Mr Charnock’s son said he was married to his wife Vera for many years and was living in Falcon Avenue when he died.

Darwen chairman Graham Ainslie, club chairman, said: “Our thoughts at this time are with his wife Vera and the rest of the family.

“Colin’s commitment to the club will never be forgotten and his contributions have been significant over many decades.

“He has seen the club transform both on and off the field of play.

“I know he was looking forward to our move into the Lancashire League for this coming season.

“When I took over as chairman nine years ago, Colin was always there to pass on his knowledge and experience, for which I will always grateful.”

The funeral will take place at St Edward’s Church on Friday at 11.15am.