THE sudden death of Richard Luty has cast a shadow over the local Cricket scene, especially within the Bolton Asssociation.

Richard was a popular umpire, a Yorkshireman with a dry sense of humour, respected by players and officials alike and had been secretary of the Bolton and District Cricket Association for the past 13 years.

John Charlson, chairman of the Bolton Association, said Richard would be sadly missed by all.

He said: "He had a deep love for the game and despite his age, was a very fit man.

"He was passionate about cricket and if there is any consolation from his death, it is that he died as he would probably have wanted -- on the cricket pitch and with his beloved Yorkshire top of the County Championship table."

Peter Tatton, the appointments secretary of the Bolton and District Umpires Association, said: "His death is a great shock to all who knew him.

"He was a friendly man and very knowledgable about cricket, a quality which earned him respect throughout the game."

Roy Cavanagh, secretary of the Bolton Association, said Richard had a knack of taking things in his stride and making people feel at ease.

He said: "He was immensely proud of his Yorkshire heritage. Everyone connected with cricket in this area will miss him."