The Club are saddened to hear of the passing of former Chairman and Life Member Rod Kenyon on 29th December 2024.
Rod’s association with the club started in 1959 as a junior member when he recalled being coached by Bobby Simpson who was pro at the time. After many years of helping the club in various roles he became Chairman in 2004, taking over from the late Peter Barratt. During his time as Chairman, he oversaw the most successful time in the club’s history as they were Lancashire League Champions 3 times, runners up on 2 occasions and did the league and Worsley Cup double for the only time in 2008. He was responsible for signing many top professionals during that time, including record breaking pro Ashar Zaidi in 2011.
After stepping down as Chairman at the end of the 2018 season he was elected President, a role he held for 4 years and which he described at the time as a great honour. Rod was also made a life member of the club at the 2023 AGM in recognition of everything he had done for the club over many years.
Club Secretary Mark Taylor said ‘On behalf of everyone at Accrington and the wider Lancashire League community I would like to pass on condolences to Bev and family at this sad time. Rod worked tirelessly behind the scenes all year round for many years to keep the club going, doing the little jobs everyone took for granted. Without his support and dedication, especially during a very difficult time for the club in the mid 2000’s, the club would not be in the strong position it is today. During cricket seasons he would spend most days working around the ground and during the winter organised football for Huncoat Utd Juniors. He was also instrumental in the club signing sponsorship deals with local companies such as Haworth's and The Property Shop which put the club on a sound financial footing. Volunteers such as Rod was the lifeblood of any club and the club will be forever thankful for everything he did. He will be fondly remembered by all the friends he made both at the club and across all the Lancashire League grounds.’
President Len Dewhurst added ‘Sad to hear the news about Rod. His time as Chairman was possibly the most successful period of the club in recent times. When health allowed the did most jobs on the ground, he would sometimes be on the roller in his dinner hour before he retired. He watched most games including juniors and 3rd XI home and away. He always supported social events…to sum up he just loved the club.’
Management Chairman Jonathan Hayhurst: Myself and everyone at Accrington Cricket Club would like to pass on our condolences to Bev and family but also pay tribute the Rod for the many years he committed to the club. Taking on various roles at the showed his commitment and love for the club but also wanting to make a difference which paid off whilst as chairman, delivering some of the most successful years the club has ever seen with league and cup titles. Rod will be sorely missed by all, thanks for the great memories.
Anyone wishing to send a tribute to Rod can do so by emailing accringtoncricketclub@outlook.com
A tribute page will be online in the coming days.
