David Hodgkiss, Lancashire chairman, at the unveiling of the James Anderson End at Old Trafford in August 2017
David Hodgkiss, the Lancashire chairman, has died at the age of 71 after contracting coronavirus.
Hodgkiss, who had been on the board at Emirate Old Trafford for 22 years, is understood to have had underlying health issues.
Having previously served as treasurer and vice-chairman, he took over from Michael Cairns in April 2017 and was a central figure in the renovation of Old Trafford over the past decade.
“Further to the announcement from his family, it is with great sadness that Lancashire Cricket announces the passing of its Chairman, David Hodgkiss OBE,” read a club statement on Monday morning.
“David served the club with distinction over many years including holding the offices of treasurer, vice-chairman and latterly chairman.
Such sad news. A great man who always had time for everyone and loved the Will remember his capping speech for a long time https://t.co/KTeTkxBJ85 pic.twitter.com/rTrA5cW2RF
— Matt Parkinson (@mattyparky96) March 30, 2020
“He was much loved by everyone at Lancashire Cricket Club and respected throughout the cricketing world. Our sincere condolences and thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
Daniel Gidney, Lancashire’s chief executive, paid his respects on Twittter, writing: “I am absolutely devastated to lose my great friend. RIP David.”
Matt Parkinson, the Lancashire and England legspinner who received his club cap from Hodgkiss in 2018, added: “Such sad news. A great man who always had time for everyone and loved the [red rose]. Will remember his capping speech for a long time
Luke Sutton, the former Lancashire batsman turned player agent, added: “Such sad news. David was a really lovely man who loved Lancashire cricket.”
Hodgkiss also served as chief executive of steel fabrication company the William Hare Group, and was awarded the OBE for services to manufacturing and exporting
Source: ESPN Crickinfo