In 1963 and 1966 Garry Sobers toured England with the West Indies. But in those days it was not so easy for cricketers from other countries to play for the English counties, so for the summers of 1964, 1965 and 1967 he appeared for Norton Cricket Club in the North Staffordshire and South Cheshire league.

What a player! His whole personality and cricket skills lit up not only the club but also the whole league. Gerry, Garry’s brother, kept wicket at Norton, and other top visitors included the fast bowler Wes Hall at Great Chell.

At the time I was playing in the juniors and second team: from Garry’s many fine innings I can recall a six ending up in the car park – as a result some people would not park there. He was as approachable as he was gifted.