Dear Members,
As most of you will already know Allen Brierley died on 2 January, at Willow Woods Hospice, with his family by his side.

He was 75 years old.
Allen leaves behind his lovely wife Shirley, his children Cheryl and Bobby, his grand children, Georgie and Archie.
Having suffered a stroke in November, Allen spent his last few weeks in hospital, before going into palliative care.
Allen was a hugely influential figure at our club, for more than 25 years.

I remember him joining with his young and talented son, Bobby, in the 1990's.

He immediately made an impact given his obvious love of the game and his warm, rather modest demeanour.
Allen was encyclopaedic in his knowledge of cricket and loved to scour local news, searching for notable scores and performances, often suggesting the club look at young players who were performing well in neighbouring leagues.
He firmly believed the development of our young cricketers should be the club's primary focus and that we should strive to have the best available facilities and coaching support.

In addition Allen, who was a highly respected accountant, brought considerable professional expertise.

In this sense Allen was a cornerstone of our operations for two decades, as committee man and treasurer, playing a crucial role in helping the club navigate some turbulent financial challenges.
Notably, Allen helped deliver the club's indoor practice facility, utilising his knowledge of another of his great loves, flowers.


He was far too modest to talk about it very much but Allen was in fact a World Champion! And, rightly proud of his work as a member of the multi award winning Denton Chrysanthemum society.
In relation to the indoor nets, Allen specifically suggested we use a Poly tunnel to provide cover.
Taking the project on, he went further, securing a sizeable grant and, after a lengthy appeal, planning permission.

The use of a poly tunnel in this way had never been done before and remains unique.
It would be true to say, given Allen's knowledge and experience in horticulture, we have the best facilities in the area.

Throughout his tenure on our General Committee Allen was loyal, committed and hard working. One of those great unsung heroes Clubs like our are so indebted to...
In his later years Allen could often be found in his favourite spot, by the grass car park, sharing a bench with his friends, Ghilksy, Ted and many more. Watching the great game, in rain or shine, no doubt providing measured insight and expert analysis, as was his hallmark.
Hyde CSC has lost a lovely man and a great servant.
Shirley would like to invite his friends to his funeral.
Monday 20 January 2025 @ 1.15pm
Mottram Parish Church.
(SK14 6JL)
Burial @ 1400.
Wake at Hyde cricket and Squash Club from 2.30pm.

See you there.

John Buckley