A cricket club has paid tribute to its former chair who oversaw "the most successful period of the club" after he died earlier this week.
Rod Kenyon started his association with Accrington Cricket Club in 1959 as a junior member and, after many years helping the club in various roles, he became chair in 2004, taking over from the late Peter Barratt.
The club confirmed Rod died on Sunday, December 29.
During his time as chair, he oversaw a hugely successful period for the club as it was Lancashire League champions three times, runners-up twice and did the league and Worsley Cup double in 2008.
Rod was also responsible for signing many top professionals during that time, including record-breaking pro Ashar Zaidi in 2011.
After stepping down as chair at the end of the 2018 season, he was elected as club president, a role he held for four years.
He was also made a life member at the 2023 AGM in recognition of his service over many years.
Club secretary Mark Taylor said: "On behalf of everyone at Accrington CC and the wider Lancashire League community I would like to pass on condolences to Bev and her family at this sad time.
"Rod worked tirelessly behind the scenes all year round for many years to keep the club going, doing the little jobs everyone took for granted.
"Without his support and dedication, especially during a very difficult time for the club in the mid-2000s, the club would not be in the strong position it is today.
"During cricket seasons he would spend most days working around the ground and during the winter organised football for Huncoat United Juniors.
"He was also instrumental in the club signing sponsorship deals with local companies such as Haworth's and The Property Shop which put the club on a sound financial footing.
"Volunteers such as Rod are the lifeblood of any club and the club will be forever thankful for everything he did.
"He will be fondly remembered by all the friends he made both at the club and across all the Lancashire League grounds."
Club president Len Dewhurst added: "His time as chairman was possibly the most successful period of the club in recent times.
"When health allowed he did most jobs on the ground, he would sometimes be on the roller in his dinner hour before he retired.
"He watched most games including juniors and the 3rd XI home and away. He always supported social events. To sum it up he just loved the club."
Management chairman Jonathan Hayhurst said Rod would be "sorely missed by all" and thanked him for the great memories they had together.
Anyone wishing to send a tribute to Rod can do so by emailing the club at accringtoncricketclub@outlook.com
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