CRICKETING royalty has gathered for the funeral of Dickie Bird, one of the most beloved figures in the sport.
The legendary umpire and former player, whose full name is Harold Dennis Bird, died peacefully at home last month at the age of 92.
Figures from across the cricketing world, including ex-England captain Michael Vaughan and commentator John Helm were in attendance.
Dickie’s former teammate Sir Geoffrey Boycott led mourners at St Mary’s Church in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, this afternoon.
The former England star gave a heartwarming eulogy as he addressed the service for his close pal of 70 years.
He said: “Surprisingly with all the nerves he had as a batsman, he became a great umpire…
“Because he could channel all that nervous energy into good decisions.
“Dickie was refreshingly different. Eccentric but fair. It would be hard to find anyone who didn’t like him.”
In a touching moment ahead of the funeral, which started at 2pm, Dickie’s cortege stopped outside his statue in his hometown.
Following his death, tributes poured in for the cricket legend, with former Prime Minister David Cameron hailing Dickie a “national treasure”.
Yorkshire County Cricket Club, where Dickie kicked off his professional cricket career and later became president, paid tribute to the icon.
It said: “It is with profound sadness that the club announces the passing of Harold Dennis “Dickie” Bird… one of cricket’s most beloved figures
“Dickie enjoyed an illustrious career as an international umpire, writing his name into history as the most famous and popular official in the game.
“He is synonymous with Yorkshire Cricket, where he has been one of the most loyal supporters.
“In 2014, he was named President of The Yorkshire County Cricket Club, a role he held with pride and distinction…
The club won two county championship titles during Dickie’s spell as president.
Born in Barnsley, Dickie kicked off his professional cricket career with Yorkshire in 1956 and spent three years with the club.
He then went on to spend three years with Leicestershire.
After retiring from his county cricket career, he became an umpire and quickly established himself as one of the best in the game.
Dickie officiated in 66 Test matches and 69 One Day Internationals, including three World Cup finals.
The cricketer was appointed an MBE in 1986 and an OBE in 2012 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the sport.
