Fred Noyes, Beaconsfield Cricket Club’s longest-serving Vice President, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his immediate family, on 23 January 2025, aged 93.

Fred was a real stalwart of the club. He joined us as an all-rounder from Amersham Hill CC in 1972, when already past 40, and made an immediate impact, scoring the first of his two centuries for the club that year, when representing the 3rd XI. He became 2nd XI vice-captain in 1974 and was the Sunday 2nd XI captain from 1977-81. From 1985-88, once his playing days had come to an end, Fred became the club’s 1st XI umpire (this was before the days of league panel officials).

Fred was important off the pitch as well as on it. In 1975, he became a highly efficient fixtures secretary, a job he held until 1983. In 1991, he became the club's meticulous 1st XI scorer, undertaking this job for an impressive 21 seasons in his unfussy and quiet manner. Also in that year, as an acknowledgement of his remarkable service to the club, he was elected a Vice President. He was frequently spotted on the boundary supporting his son, Steve, and two grandsons, who also played for the club.

After stepping down from official duties in 2012, he continued to follow the club with interest, often watching games from his car, parked close to the entrance.

We send commiserations to Fred's widow Joan, son Steve, daughter Sue, and the rest of the family.