On his own admission, it’s not often that umpire Glyn Pearson is lost for words – but he was last night at the JCT600 Bradford League Umpires’ Association's annual meeting at Cleckheaton Sports Club.

He had just performed his last duty before retiring as chairman when secretary David Ratcliffe presented him with an engraved wine carafe in recognition of his long service.

Ratcliffe said: “Glyn is standing down after seven years as chairman, seven years as secretary and two years on the executive committee, and he has done a tremendous amount of work not only for us but also the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and the ACO (Association of Cricket Officials).

“We just cannot let him go without making a formal presentation.”

Pearson, who will remain a member of the BCLUA, responded: “I am not usually lost for words but I am choked.”

Pearson was not the only stalwart standing down as Tom Priestley was retiring, as was Pearson, as an umpires’ representative to the JCT600 Bradford League.

Bradford League chairman Graham Reid said: “Glyn has served the Bradford League Umpires’ Association for 16 years, and the league for six years, while Tom has served you for 18 years on either the league’s executive committee or board of management - magnificent efforts on your behalf.”

Alan Carter was elected as the Umpires’ Association’s new chairman, while David Ellis, Gerald Taylor and Neil Johnson have joined their executive commitee.