WALKDEN Cricket Club are mourning the loss of club stalwart Maureen Smith.

A life member of the club, Mrs Smith was on its management committee and heavily involved in the running of the club until scaling down her responsibilities when she became ill two years ago.

She is the mother of two of the top players the club has produced, David and John, and also leaves a daughter, Michelle.

Mrs Smith, who is from Walkden and was 69, was well-known throughout the Bolton Cricket League for her work and commitment to Walkden CC for three decades.

Life president of Walkden CC and the Bolton League, Frank Hinks, said: "She was a cornerstone of Walkden Cricket Club and a lovely person who will be sadly missed by all."

The funeral takes place on Friday at Our Lady of Lourdes and Saint Gregory's, Plodder Lane, Farnworth, at 10am followed by 11.15am at Overdale Crematorium.