Here are a few more of the many tributes to Ted Ashman received since he died on Monday.
I will miss Ted so much – as a true friend, perfect gentleman who set the highest standards when managing young cricketers. He masterminded all the Primary/Junior Cricket in the South-West for many years (both softball and hardball) and also at national level, while his management of Devon U11s abd U10s for many years was truly exemplary.
All his county fixtures and venues were always in place by Christmas and ready for the following summer. We shall not his like again – easy to say but so true.
Six of the present Somerset staff began their county cricket with Ted at under-10 oor under-11. They are Craig and Jamie Overton, Lewis Gregory, Dom Bess, Ben Green, Tom Lammonb. I know how appreciative they will always be for Ted’s help and guidance at this earliest stage of their cricketing careers.
I have to say that in all the years my Somerset under-10 team played Ted’s Devon under-10s, my side triumphed just once – at Bovey Tracey in 2013!
Since the tragically early passing of his wife Sally 17 years ago, Ted has been my regular companion on long car and rail journeys to ESCA Executive meetings, AGMs and other cricketing events when he was always great company.
In recent years, I’ve been Ted’s ‘apprentice’, helping him with ‘Winner Takes All’ in the hospitality suites at his beloved Exeter City FC.
Dear Ted, we will all miss you. May you Rest in Peace.
Chris Twort
ESCA Executive Council member
From 2004 I spent many happy years scoring for Devon Under 10s and 11s with Ted, up to his retirement. He was a lovely man and will be missed by all who knew him. RIP Ted. My thoughts are with Giles and family.
Jean Pascoe, Ashburton CC
When with Cornwall Schools Cricket, it was always a real pleasure to meet Ted. No lovelier person who always shared his love of cricket, and his passion for helping young people. What a beautiful team Ted and Sally were. Truly, one of the best.
What a lovely man he was!! I have fond memories of having him as a headmaster and also my Devon coach at under 11s. I should like to pay my respects once a date has been set. Condolences to Giles and family. RIP Ted.
Matt Pascoe, Bovey Tracey & Ashburton CC
David May, St Just CC
I remember how Ted fostered girls' into the Devon team. I remember Heather Knight now the England Ladies Captain being looked after by Sally at the festivals. What an amazing contribution he made to the world of cricket. RIP Ted
Beverley Lygo Toland
Very sad to hear about Ted’s passing. A massive contribution to Devon Cricket over the years in many guises and an absolute gentleman. One of the many roles he had was as treasurer of the Board, a job he undertook with his customary thoroughness.
He took a step back from that in latter years to concentrate on what he loved best, youth cricket, and there are so many young players who benefited from his efforts.
Cricket needs people like Ted, and he will be sorely missed.
John Sparkes
Chairman Devon Cricket Board
I was privileged to have been part of Ted’s team for a few years delivering coaching sessions at Cullompton on Sundays in the winter. He instilled such great values in the youngsters and the enthusiasm and love for the game shown by both Ted and Sally was an example to all who attended. RIP Ted! A true legend.
Andy Hele, Barton CC & Devon
