Former team mates and friends of Paul ‘Smiler’ Collins gathered in early July to celebrate Paul’s contribution to cricket in North Hampshire following his passing earlier in the year following a short illness.
The memorial game was hosted by Hurstbourne Priors CC on 6th July 2019, where Paul began and all but finished his career but it was his spells with Longparish CC and Andover CC that really enabled him to demonstrate his talent! Paul’s son John performed the toss before contributing with both bat and ball while Paul’s wife Michelle and extended family provided a fantastic tea/BBQ.
Players and spectators alike gave generously post-match and the fantastic sum of £542 was raised for HASAG Paul’s designated charity who have provided the family much needed help since his death. So much fun and reminiscing was had that there is a very good chance they’ll all be gathering again next year to repeat the event!
Martyn
