Friends and former team-mates remember Tavistock's Eric Jarman at memorial day | Colts' match highlight of day's celebrations

A few of Eric’s team mates from the past: Back Barry Chappell (socially distancing due to an imminent hospital appointment), Robert Jarman, Andrew Jarman, Richie Callow, Ian Gauler, Dave Ewings; front: Andy Gauler, Terry Pearce, Maurice Craze

TAVISTOCK Cricket Club celebrated the life and achievements of one of their own during fun-filled memorial day on and off the pitch.

Eric, who died earlier this year aged 93, had a near-70-year connection with Tavisock CC as a player, captain, administrator, president and supporter.

Wife Enid was a tea lady and sons Robert and Andrew became first-team players too.

Andrew is now the club president and his daughter Kate is married to Tavistock CC chairman Dave Manning, still very much part of the first-team set-up at the Ring.

So family honour was at stake when the youth team representing the president played a colts’ team assembled by the chairman.

“The president’s men batted first and ended on 239 with the highlight being Eric’s great-grandson Albert smashing the only six of the game,” said Manning.

“However the chairman’s team cruised to victory with 286 thanks to significant contributions from Nelson Stanley, George Downham, Isaac Thomas and captain James Adams.

“It was the first hard-ball game for many of the players and great to see how they have all improved in their first proper season.”

Andrew Jarman appealed for old team-mates and friends of his father to go along and was overwhelmed by the response.

“We had a fantastic day with a huge crowd of many more than we were expecting,” said Andrew.

“Many old friends and acquaintances of dad met up for the first time in years. 

“There was a great turnout from family as well, with grandchildren, great-grand children and extended family enjoying the day. 

“It was a testament to Dad’s popularity that so many came, some travelling a considerable distance to be part of the day. 

“It was also fantastic to see so many young colts and their families who are the future of the club. 

“My brother and I would like to extend thanks to everyone who helped make the day so successful, from caterers to volunteer bar staff and friends who helped out wherever needed. 

“And, of course, thanks to the young players and their coaches for the entertaining cricket.”

Young cricketers from Tavistock CC sit down with Andrew and Robert Jarman for a photo prior to the Eric Jarman memorial game on Sunday