It is with deep sadness that Bacup Cricket Club has received the news of the passing of Stanley Hall at the grand old age of 93.
Stanley was a former player and had loyally remained a member of the club, always trying to visit at least once a season, travelling from his home in Royton.
He led a remarkable life. Born in Stacksteads in 1927 he was a pupil at Western and then Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School. It was whilst he was still at BRGS that he made his debut as a 15 year old schoolboy in 1942, standing in whilst more experienced players were away fighting for their country.
He left school to work for an accountancy firm before serving his National Service in the coal mines of Burnley. Next came Manchester University and training for the Methodist ministry.
Between 1942 and 1955 he made 118 appearances taking 189 wickets at the impressive average of 16.23 with a best of 7 for 23. This match winning performance came in the match when Everton Weekes was famously out first ball.
Stanley’s cricket career was, however, cut short and he spent the late 50’s and 60’s in Africa doing missionary work before returning to England to the Methodist ministry in Shaw, Royton and Ashton.
Stanley indeed led a rich and varied life and is of course also known as the co - author of “The Authorised History of Bacup Cricket Club” alongside Chris Farnworth. However, playing alongside Everton Weekes in the halcyon years of Lancashire League cricket remained a true highlight of his life.
Our sincere condolences go to his three daughters and the rest of the family. God bless you Stanley.
