BROMYARD’S Jeff Bayliss has won this year’s Herefordshire Cricket’s Rob Staite Award.

He has been involved with the north Herefordshire club for more than 40 years and started Bromyard’s youth section 10 years ago.

“I didn’t expect to win this award and I am delighted to be recognised — there are some fantastic names on the trophy,” said the 59-year-old.

“I played cricket against Rob and I remember him well and it’s an honour to receive this trophy.”

Bayliss was presented with the trophy by Rob’s mum, Beryl, and Herefordshire Cricket’s Glyn Harrhy before Eastnor’s match against Lashings World XI.

Jeff founded Bromyard’s youth section, has captained the first, second and third teams at Flaggoners Green, held the secretary’s position and now assists with the ground.

He is now the club captain at the cricket club and is a founder member of Bromyard Rugby Club.

“The cricket club is flourishing at the moment with so many youngsters that we’re thinking of starting a fourth team,” Jeff said.

Jeff, a steady opening batsman, now plays for the third team with his son, Thomas.

Bromyard’s Edd Oliver said: “I think it’s probably easier to name the jobs that Jeff hasn’t done.

“He’s been involved in all areas of the club and started our youth section in 2004. He is a deserved winner of this special trophy.”

The Rob Staite Award is presented annually in memory of Rob, who was just 35-years-old when he died of cancer.

The seam bowler, who also ran the successful financial business Catley Staite, began his cricketing career in Kington.

He then played for Hereford before returning to the north Herefordshire club.

A keen Hereford Evening League cricketer, Rob played for Nomads, Hereford City Sports Club, Lads Club, Brockhampton and Woodpeckers.

In spite of his illness, Rob courageously attended the 1997 Kington Sportsman’s Dinner he had organised, shortly before his death.