It is with deep regret and with great sadness that we announce that the SEDCB Youth Secretary JOHN WADE passed away two days ago (Monday 26th March) following what has been reported as a stroke.
As tributes from the cricket community flood in, Kevin Hymas, Chairman of this Board said: “I am devastated that this gentleman has passed away so suddenly. He has been outstanding in his role with us and Essex youth cricket for a long period of time. He will be greatly missed and may I, on behalf all our member clubs, send our condolences to his family”.
Paul Brice, Chairman of the Essex and East London branch of Cricket Officials: “I am totally shocked by this news. I had the utmost respect for what John had done for the youngsters of the area and I know he is irreplaceable, he will be sorely missed. Rest in Peace”.
Graham Davies, fellow coach and also qualified umpire: “A true pillar of the cricketing community – a fountain of knowledge sadly gone”.
Janet Jefferies, appreciative parent of former Belhus CC junior: “Oh, such sad news. What a nice man he was”.
Dave Wilson, Essex Coaches Association: “I am deeply shocked to learn that John passed away yesterday. A great servant of cricket in Essex over many years who will be hugely missed. My sincere sympathies to all”.
Neil Mason, Youth Indoor Six a side administrator (east) for the SEDCB: “John Wade sadly passed away this afternoon. Terribly sad news”.
Baiju Solanki, Hon Secretary of Southend EMT and Joint President, SEDCB: “This is so sad, I heard earlier this evening. This is a great loss for his family, as well as the whole of cricket in Essex”.
Dan Feist, Cricket Development Manager, Essex County Cricket Board: “This is deeply shocking news and has happened so quickly”.
Julia Squires, Youth Secretary, Belhus CC: “What a shock, he will be greatly missed”.
Paula Haden, appreciative parent of Orsett CC junior: “What dreadful news. I know that he was not a district training last week as he was unwell. If possible, please on my condolences to his family”.
Bob Ayres, Joint President of SEDCB: “What a shock. I’ve known John for years, what a loss to Essex Cricket. It’s devastating”.
Martin Leslie, Stanford le Hope CC and former district youth player: “That is very sad news”.
Cliff Cansdale, Youth Indoor Sixes Administrator (west) for SEDCB: “John set such high standards in both coaching and administration that will be impossible to surpass. The outdoor youth cricket archive pages on this website were created and wholly made by John. A great companion on our “New Website” project, unbeatable and so sadly missed already. He never failed to deliver”.
Robert Pearn, Chairman of Stanford le Hope CC: “Can’t believe the news. So, so sad. My little lad was training with him for the district every other Thursday”.