Cricket stalwart Stan honoured in Queen's Birthday Honours

Mr Stan Heaton, chairman of Lowerhouse Cricket Club, was awarded the BEM for services to young people and grassroots cricket in Lancashire.

The man credited with transforming the fortunes of Lowerhouse Cricket Club was honoured for his work in promoting the game across the county.

He said: “Cricket is a marvellous sport, but it’s important we protect our national summer game and help it thrive in the future.

“The more people we can involve the better and the best way to do that is through children.

“I am the chairman of the Lancashire Junior League which now has 1,000 children taking part. I’ve also been involved with girls’ cricket for the last 10 years. The future is bright, but only if volunteers keep on.”

The retired policeman will be presented with his medal locally but he has also been invited to a garden party at Buckingham Palace.

However, in true Lancashire style, Stan celebrated his BEM with a meat and black pudding pie.

He added: “I would like to see the Government supporting cricket more in schools. Cricket is extremely strong in this area despite it not being played much in schools. I’m incredibly grateful so many children are still playing the game.”