Obituary Phil made an ‘enormous contribution’ to local cricket
TRIBUTES have been paid to Phil Bush, a stalwart of the Bristol club cricket scene who has died at the age of 73.
Phil was an officer of the Bristol Youth League for 30 years before stepping down 12 months ago because of ill health, but he volunteered his services as an umpire for at least 10 summers before beginning his official duties.
League chairman Jim Donaldson said: “Phil loved being busy and involved, and made an enormous contribution. He was league secretary for 30 years but in the past was also our fixture secretary for representative matches, acting as the team manager for nine years, and helped organise winter coaching in the days before clubs organised their own practice sessions for young players.
“Phil was a very meticulous man and that skill came to the fore at our annual fixture meeting when he helped sort out all the dates for games being played in the forthcoming season.
“He was made a life member of the league in 2007, and we were very proud to present Phil with a framed and signed Jack Russell print of Lord’s when he decided last year to step down from his roles.”
Phil was also honoured by the Bristol & District League, receiving the Sid Wills Trophy in 2011 for his contributions to the sport in the city.
Chairman Trevor Crouch said: “Phil gave a tremendous amount to the game and will be remembered with lots of affection.
“One of the great sadnesses of the Covid situation is that there would have been a big turnout from the local cricket community at his funeral as he would have umpired hundreds of players across the city over the years.”
Phil, who for many years was affiliated with Bedminster, was a long-time member of the Bristol Association of Cricket Umpires and Scorers.
Secretary Martin Brown said: “Many members need no reminding of the exceptional time and commitment that Phil offered and gave to local cricket. He was an outstanding servant to the game.”
Funeral details are expected to be announced shortly.