FOR half a century, Peter Mountford has dedicated his life to the Scarborough Cricket Club.
This Saturday at Abbett Park the “quietly spoken” clubman will be honoured with a Life Member Award.
Mountford joined the Gulls in 1967 as a 15-year-old and has not looked back since, with fellow Scarborough Life Member John Davis calling the stalwart the “heart and soul” of the club.
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READ NOWMountford’s playing days followed in the seniors, where he served as the Fourth Grade captain for a number of years, before filling committee roles post retirement.
“The only role he hasn’t fulfilled is president and on the roller,” Davis said.
“He has been a selector and the longest serving First Grade scorer the club has ever had.
“While in that role he has scored for all of the premierships, except the first in 1977.”
Following his contribution to the club, the scorers’ and trophy room was named after Mountford in recognition of his efforts, with this weekend’s afternoon tea from 4pm inside the Peter Wearne Pavilion an acknowledgement for his 50 years of service.
“We expect a big crowd to join us, to honour him and rededicate the room to him,” Davis said.
“In Peter’s normal manner, he is probably a little shy about the day but looking forward to seeing all the old faces to shake his hand again.”
Mountford has been the linchpin behind the success of the club not only on the field but also behind the scenes, with his passion for the Gulls unmatched around Abbett Park.
“He is probably one of the foundation stones if you consider him and people like Peter Wearne,” Davis said.
“They have always been prepared to serve regardless of what role that is.
“They always have the club in mind and the club at heart.”