It is with great sadness we must report the passing of Derek Lacey, former Club President. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the Lacey family at this difficult time.
Derek was a jovial character and was always a regular visitor to the Chingford Cricket Club .
According to Club Records Derek played 338 times for Chingford between 1972 and his final game in 1999 but generally he only played on Saturdays. He was an enthusiastic regular 3rd xi wicket keeper for many years - but was always willing to step up to the 2s if and when needed. Derek scored 5115 runs for the Club and took one wicket, which must have been some collector's item ! Behind the wicket Derek snaffled 189 catches and 88 stumpings, let's just say one or two of those were off his knee !
Derek was an ever present on our Indoor Cricket Tours to Jersey in the late 1980s and upon arrival would set up base in The Pierson, round the corner from the hotel and hold court with the locals until closing time with a short break for the cricket.
Affectionately known to the older members as "Durlik Lally", this originated from a misprint in the Chingford Guardian's match report when the Sports Editor could not read the author of this article's handwriting !
Derek was very proud to be one of a small number of Chingford CC people who have become MCC members when he was accepted in the late 1990s and he was also elected Chinghopper no 853 in 2007.
When his playing days were over, Derek took up umpiring for many years and would don the white coat with distinction for the 2nd xi. He was a good and honest umpire and knew not only the laws inside out but also very importantly how to actually run a game of cricket
Derek continued until his passing as Chairman of the 100+ Club which continues to provide an important role in funding projects for the Club.
In recognition of his service to the Club, Derek was elected Club President in 2012 and carried out his duties with great enthusiasm and commitment in a five year stint lasting until 2016
Towards the end Derek's health began to fade but determined to keep going Derek undeterred carried on doing his favourite things - going on cruises and visiting the Club
RIP Derek , you will be sorely missed
Details of the funeral are:
Tuesday 8 September 3pm at New Crematorium, Netherhouse Farm, Sewardstone Road E4 7RJ with the wake at Chingford Cricket Club afterwards