A tribute.
Tributes have been pouring into Sutton Cricket Club in Hull following the sudden death of Keith Blagg at the cricket ground last Wednesday at the age of 68. The whole cricket community is stunned, shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden loss of one of cricket’s most valued, committed and hardworking volunteers of many years’ service.
Keith has devoted his entire life to Sutton Cricket, and with his love for the game coupled with his love for people, you can certainly understand why he is commonly known and respected as a true “LEGEND”.
A much-loved, tireless worker in East Yorkshire, who has given so much to so many people in all capacities, whether it be as Captain, Coach, Umpire, Scorer, Groundsman, Barman, Lift giver or DBS checker across the region.
Keith was an absolutely fabulous person to work with, particularly in relation to club cricket and junior cricket development, where his passionate views were always well received around the county. The work that he has done for the Hull and East Riding area, but in particular his beloved Sutton CC is quite simply immeasurable.
A minute’s silence was held at Sutton’s ground last Saturday followed by a minute’s applause which was attended by juniors, players, parents, family members, senior players past and present and they were joined by families, players and officials from other clubs. There was not a single dry eye on the ground. It was very humbling to see the wide spectrum of people.
Merv Burden, Chairman of Sutton said:
"Keith did everything he could to be the best he could be to deliver, always with a smile and a calming effect on others. It was as a direct effect of Keith’s foresight following his retirement from playing many years ago, that he was committed to the development of juniors around all the local schools and introduced them to the different age group teams, that he had set up at the club. This was the beginning of what is now one of the best youth structures in the whole of East Yorkshire. He set about getting as many players/ex players to qualify as coaches to assist in the journey that he knew was the future of his beloved club. This structure is even more embedded in the future of our club. Our first team on Saturday consisted of players that have come through over the years from kids clubs, junior ranks.
“...It is for all the above reasons that the club will collectively ensure that the Blagg legacy will continue to develop and grow in the way he would want.
“...In the coming weeks Keith was looking forward to fulfilling his desire to have the outfield relevelled. Sadly, he will not be here to see one of his dreams completed. His next dream was to have a new purpose built clubhouse and changing facility. It is down to us now to make his dream come true.”
Andrew Watson (YCB Managing Director) said:
"Keith had an endearing personality and was fabulous to work with. He engaged with absolutely everyone and I remember vividly the formation of the 'Kids Club', where I came along to present the awards. He had a kind word for every child – he knew them all and spoke about every player’s achievement (no matter how small) and did it without a script! He was an absolute inspirational coach and everyone loved him.
“...Whether you were a coach, parent, club member or a young player, he always had time for you and together with his calm, relaxing and influencing manner we all knew that everything would be 'Just Fine'.
“...We shall all miss him so, so very much and it has been my absolute privilege and pleasure to have known him and to have worked alongside him for over 20 years.”
Sutton CC have had a member of the Blagg family associated with the club for over 100 years, starting with Keith’s father and moving forward now through his son Aaron.
We have lost a thoroughly, thoroughly decent, honest man who is totally irreplaceable. I am glad he has touched our lives. A gentleman has walked past this way.