Richard Merriman recently stepped down as chairman of the Pembroke County Cricket Club and is now still on the executive committee as Previous Past Chairman so that he can pass on the experience he has achieved in that three-year period.

Over the years he has built up a very close friendship with another former chairman and life member in Dai Morris, who sadly passed away last week – and today we are pleased on PembrokeshireSport.co.uk to publish a moving tribute by Richard about his late friend . . .

“Pembrokeshire Cricket has lost a true ambassador of the game and I have lost a true friend, so glad Linda and I were fortunate enough to spend some time with him and Jean last week.

“Our thoughts and condolence’s go to Jean, Andrew, Simon and all the family at this very sad time.

“I first met Dai when I was scoring for Whitland and he was umpiring and having a chat after and we soon became great friends, and of course Trefor Evans, Hilliard Davies and Huw Davies, who were on the circuit, would always have stories to tell when umpiring with Dai.

“Trefor encouraged me to take up umpiring and then I had the pleasure to stand with Dai on many occasions. He always had time for everyone and after games enjoyed nothing more than a chat with the players over a pint.

“His love of cricket shone bright for all to see and he had time for everyone wherever he was and everyone knew Dai.  I served with him on both the County and Umpires’ executive committees and his commitment to Pembrokeshire Cricket has been unrivalled in my opinion.

“We had some great times watching Pembroke County sides play and also, he toured with us at Whitland to Ireland, which I will always have fond memories of a great friend.

“One of his passions outside cricket was his garden and alongside Jean spent many happy hours growing flowers and vegetables which I must say was great because he kept us and Trefor stocked up with lettuce, spring onions and tomatoes and Trefor would also have cakes from Jean during the season.

“To Jean, Andrew, Simon and families you have lost the hinge pin of the family and we have lost the corner stone of Pembrokeshire Cricket.

“RIP my friend.  God bless.”