Keighley stalwart Keith Robinson was tonight awarded the JCT600 Bradford League’s Sir Leonard Hutton Trophy for Outstanding Service.

The 78-year-old has been a devoted servant of the game for several decades and his dedication was recognised at the league’s annual presentation ceremony at Cedar Court Hotel.

After excelling as a player, Keith has served with distinction as an umpire, league representative, committee man, child welfare officer, junior organiser, supporter and caterer.

He started his playing days in the early 1950s at Bingley and Saltaire. He was a batter of some skill and an impressive fielder, winning the league award.

Keith’s umpiring career included standing in a Priestley Cup Final.

Off the field he was worked tirelessly behind the scenes at Keighley Cricket Club along with his wife, Lesley.

The club’s citation in nominating Keith for the award read: “It is impossible and unfair to speak about Keith without mentioning Lesley in the same breath.

“They form a wonderful partnership, working tirelessly all year round for the good of Keighley Cricket Club, the Bradford League and the local community.”

“They provide first-class teas and refreshments at every game at the club, from under-nines and schools cricket to first teams and representative level.

“All profits made from the catering are ploughed straight back into the club, primarily for the development of junior cricket.”

Keith’s commitment to junior cricket has provided a lasting legacy. In partnership with Lesley, they have sacrificed countless hours to accommodate games at the club to encourage the next generation of players.

Indeed their three sons – Jamie, Phillip and Richard – developed into fine players in their own right. Phillip went on to play for Yorkshire, while Richard is the Bradford League’s all-time leading run scorer.

Keith is also a shrewd observer of cricket talent and, more importantly, temperament. Many of his recommendations have gone on to play cricket for Keighley and further afield.

The club’s nomination summed up Keith’s passion for the sport.

It read: “To put it simply, Keith Robinson has got cricket, and Bradford League cricket in particular, running through his veins.

“Much like Sir Neville Cardus famously said of another Keighley great and namesake Emmott Robinson: ‘few have absorbed the game, the Yorkshire game, into their systems, their minds, nerves and bloodstreams as he does...”

The citation also read: "Cricket clubs cannot function without people like Keith Robinson working tirelessly behind the scenes. He is a cricket man to his very core.

"He is respected for his tremendous services to every aspect of cricketing life by everyone across the cricketing community."