BOLTON League chairman Mike Hall has led the tributes to president Peter Stafford, who died on Thursday.

Hall described his death, following a long illness, as a “sad day for local cricket”.

Stafford had a long association with the Bolton League, as a player and secretary, before being elected president in 2000.

“I am sure that I speak for all the people involved in the Bolton League and cricket across the county when I say that Peter will be sadly missed,” said Hall.

“His wise counsel and support will be a great loss.

“Peter was well loved by the wider cricket family but none more so than the 14 clubs who make up the Bolton League. It is certainly a sad day for local cricket.”

Stafford played at Farnworth, Kearsley and Eagley and was a well respected cricketer wherever he played the game.

He raised the bar as a wicket keeper and, up until recently, held the Bolton League record for most victims behind the stumps.

Stafford won the league wicket keeping prize in 1961 and 1977 and he still holds the record at Eagley for the highest number of victims.

He went on to work as league secretary from 1974 to 1986 and was awarded the Hubert Pendlebury Memorial Trophy - its highest honor – in recognition of his tireless service.

Hall added: “Peter had a great love of music, especially jazz, and he was sought after to be in your quiz team.

“Cricket lovers throughout the county will no doubt have their own recollections of Peter, especially his production of the most comprehensive league handbook, and his long service to the Lancashire Cricket Board.”

A doting grandfather, Stafford leaves behind two daughters, Judith and Claire.

Details of his funeral are still to be announced.