Devon Cricket Board - Clubs shocked by sudden death of player

TRIBUTES have been paid to Seaton cricketer Ryan Walker (pictured), who died suddenly over the weekend.
Mr Walker, who was 24, is believed to have died following a massive asthma attack.
He lived with dad Tony in the town and worked by day as a cricket coach and in the evenings as a member of the bar staff at the Vaults.
Mr Walker, who was educated at Axe Valley Community College, completed a sports degree at Southampton University last year.
He spent the winter in New Zealand playing cricket and returned to this country in time for the season over here.
Ben Morgan, the first team captain at Seaton, said news of Mr Walker’s death had stunned everyone at the club.
“He just loved cricket and everything about it – the coaching, the playing and the social side,” said Mr Morgan.
“Ryan was the sort of person who got on with everyone. I never heard a bad word said about him.
“He played football for Seaton Town 3^rd XI and they will be just as distraught as we are about his death.
“Our thoughts at this time are with his parents and older sister.”
Mr Walker rejoined Seaton last year from near neighbours Axminster, where he was also a hugely popular figure.
Tristan Wakeley, the Axminster captain, said news of Mr Walker’s death came as bombshell.
“Ryan had a lot of friends at Axminster and was up at our club a couple of weeks ago chatting to everyone,” said Mr Wakeley.
“He was a big lad with a big personality and if anyone embodied the true spirit of cricket it was him.
“Ryan was selfless in everything he did. His death at such a young age is a tragedy for his family and friends.
“Everyone at Axminster Cricket Club is devastated by this news.”

Former Axminster team-mate Joe Seward said: “I was lucky enough to get to know such a top bloke playing along side him throughout the youth age groups.

“He will be missed by all and it wont be the same not having him on the cricket field. Miss you Stubsy, Gone but will never be forgotten!.”

Fionn Wardrop of Sidmouth said: “Ryan was the sort of bloke who makes playing cricket so enjoyable.

“A genuine, happy, friendly, funny cricket enthusiast who was always a pleasure to come up against and who made the game better for everyone by playing in exactly the right spirit.

“He was one of those rare characters who would occasionally turn up at your club in the evening for a pint and a laugh and fit in instantly.

“It’s heart breaking to learn of his sudden death as he genuinely was one of the good guys.

“Devon cricket is a better place for his contribution and a poorer place for his loss.”

Graham Trude, who plays for Clyst Hydon, said: “Such sad news, the good ones get taken too early.

“We only met on a handful of occasions but he was always friendly and his spirit and passion for the game was second to none.

“Rest in peace friend.”

Jenny Sutton, who manages the colts at Seaton, said: “Our boys will miss your Ryan, you were an amazing coach.

“We will never forget your excitement and true love for the game.

“You will live on in our colts bowling and batting techniques and in their hearts.

“Thank you for inspiring them, thank you for being positive, enthusiastic and for always encouraging them!

“We will miss you dearly!”

Sidmouth chairman Mike Dibble said: I was very saddened to hear of Ryan's tragically early passing.

“Came up against him a few times when we played Axminster and he was a lovely bloke.

“He was down at Sidmouth one evening quite recently enjoyed a typical “Sidmouth Saturday night get together.

“You'd have thought he'd been a member for years!

“RIP from everyone at Sidmouth.”

Hammy Kerswill said: “Seemed a lovely chap, only met the once this season but made a brilliant effort to have a pint and chat with the opposition.”

Friend James Watson commented: “Devon cricket has lost a real, loveable character. I feel incredibly sorry for Ryan’s family and close friends.

“A gentle giant on and off the pitch who was very well kiked and taken far too young.

“Last time we spoke we were propping up the Timepiece bar. I shall be having one for you this weekend bud.”

Saj Patidar, a former 1st and 2nd XI captain at Sidmouth, said: 'It's a very sad day for cricket in Devon and more especially East Devon.

“I saw Ryan only a few weeks ago, and as ever, he was his usual friendly, smiling self.

“He was the perfect young gentleman, a passionate cricketer and he will be missed by all that knew him.

“On behalf of all at Sidmouth Cricket Club, our thoughts are with Ryan's family at this very sad time.”

Former Axminster player Phil Spong said: “Awful news about Ryan.

“I knew him first from the age of 10 and saw him develop his cricket at Axminster CC, perhaps not the most naturally gifted but always enthusiastic.

“I know how much he enjoyed his recent trip down under, playing and developing his coaching skills at Papatoetoe CC.

“Thoughts are with Dad Tony who will need all our support at his loss.”

Among many tributes to pour in today was this one from Nick Beedell of Chew Magna CC

“Stubbs did not know you for long but you were a great bloke and cricketer.

“Last season’s car trips will always be remembered, especially from my kids.”

A Facebook page has been created to mark Ryan's life 'in memory of Ryan Walker'

Send your tributes to Ryan here