Michael Brown is one of the most important people in the history of Sleaford Cricket Club having contributed to it’s wellbeing and development over a period of seven decades.
As a determined opening batsman Michael enjoyed a career spanning almost twenty years for the Club, highlighted by a much trumpeted century at Trent Bridge against Notts.Mitre in 1965. Michael served as First Eleven Captain for three seasons from 1960.
It is away from the field of play however, that Michael’s contribution will be principally remembered.
Michael succeeded his father Herbert Brown who had been elected as the Club’s first post war Chairman in 1946 and between 1967 and 1984 steered Sleaford Cricket Club unerringly in a forward and positive manner.
The first major project with which he was associated was the building of the current pavilion (opened in 1967) and subsequently he oversaw the original lounge bar extension, the building of the current implement store, a further lounge extension, a kitchen extension as well as the first floor dressing room and balcony and a new scorebox. All of these projects were completed whilst maintaining a profitable trading position thanks to a thriving bar in addition to social and fundraising events as well as annual feature cricket matches.
On stepping down as Chairman, he maintained his involvement by editing the annual handbook, taking responsibility for sponsorship and also serving as Club President. Michael continued to serve as a trustee of Sleaford Cricket Club right up until his passing. During this time, his elder son James served as Club Captain.
In addition to these many commitments, Michael was the original Chairman of the South Lincs & Border League and served as President of both Lincolnshire County Cricket Club and the Lincolnshire ECB Premier League.
It is impossible to overstate the influence Michael Brown has had on Sleaford Cricket Club. Much of the fabric of the current London Road Ground is a memorial to the vision and leadership that he provided over many years and will serve as a lasting reminder to his many years of service.
Sleaford Cricket Club is grateful for his immense contribution to it’s history and sends condolences to Michael’s family.
There will be a Memorial Service at St. Deny’s Church on 10th April at 12:30.