Stokeinteignhead planning September 4 memorial day events to commemorate Dick Parker's contribution to club and community

STOKEINTEIGNHEAD’S cricketers will be celebrating one of the club’s all-time greats during a memorial day at Netherton Park.

Saturday, September 4 has been set aside to remember Dick Parker, a retired teacher who was a bowling legend at the village club.

Parker died unexpectedly in March this year following a fall at his home in Newton Abbot.

Mike Lang, the chairman of Stokeinteignhead CC, said Parker is remembered with affection by those, such as himself, who had shared a dressing room with him.

“Those who played with or against him knew immediately if Dick was playing as the smell of Ralgex would waft out of the home dressing room,” said Lang.

“Dick took many wickets for Stoke in the South Devon Cricket League, of which we were founder members, and friendlies against touring sides from all over the country.”

Parker taught generations of local secondary school pupils at Teign School during a 40-year career as well as taking those interested in the Ten Tors Challenge on the moors for many years.

The memorial will commence mid-morning with hardball and softball competition during the day with refreshments provided throughout and, weather permitting, a barbecue in the evening. A prize draw will also take place with all proceeds from the day going to the Devon Wildlife Trust.

Memorial day organiser Ian Lang is hard at work preparing a souvenir programme, gathering raffle prizes and selling tickets for the draw.

Lang would like to hear from anyone with stories about Parker, which can be incorporated in the programme.

Contact Lang on 07427 643676, or via langian@icloud.com, if you can help or want to support the worthy cause.