Clive Jackson
Tributes have been pouring in from across the cricketing world following the death of Altofts stalwart Clive Jackson.
News of his passing at the age of 81 came in a statement from the club’s chairman Brad Barber on Twitter on Saturday..
He wrote: “Unfortunately this morning we have woken up to the worst possible mews for our club with the sad passing of club legend Clive Jackson.
“This incredible man dedicated his entire life to Altofts Cricket Club. The list is endless of what Clive has done for the club and quite frankly cannot be quantified.
“Altofts Cricket Club will never be the same without him but to be honest that doesn’t do the great man justice. He was Altofts Cricket Club, and I cannot put into words how much he will be missed by everyone at the club.
“Clive became a personal friend of mine and was always the man to go to for advice and help. Only two months ago when I became charman he was the first to offer help and guidance for me in my new role. I’m truly heartbroken by the news we have received this morning and it will take time for the club as a whole to get over this.
“We offer our sincere condolences to Joan and his family and off any support they may need. As for Clive, I truly hope we can make you proud that your legacy is being continued at the great club you have kept running for so many years.”
Clive served the club for around 60 years as a player, coach, groundsman, secretary, treasurer and league representative.
One of his greatest legacies is the junior section he launched in 1972 and has nurtured and developed over the past 48 years. He loved nothing better than coaching young players and passing on his vast knowledge of the game.
Club official Pete Chapman has known Jackson since joining Altofts as a seven-year-old in 1978. He said: “There have been tears shed as club members have come down to the ground to pay their respect.
“My phone has been constantly ringing with calls from former players and members who have heard the news. I have had a stream of messages from Australia and New Zealand from former overseas players who Clive brought to the club.
“Clive was hugely respected in Australia and coached there for many years at Sports Camps. Terry Miles who organised the camps has also been in touch to pay his respects.
“It has also been gratifying to receive so many lovely messages from fellow Bradford League clubs. Some lovely things have been said.”
Chapman added: “Both my father and I had the privilege of playing cricket alongside Clive while my son has had the benefit of being coached by him.
“Clive lived and breathed Altofts. I am an HGV driver and every morning as I passed on the M62 I would look to see if Clive’s car was at the ground. I would often see him mowing or preparing wickets. It is going to be strange when I go back to work and not see Clive as I go past.