Category Archives: In Memoriam

Peter Nitsch

It’s with great sadness that we report that long-time Mallard, Peter Nitsch has passed away.

Peter was a Mallard through and through; he joined the club in 2006 and quickly became a mainstay member, clocking up well over 100 caps for the team. In his youth Peter bowled pace for South-North, but for Mallards he was a wily spin bowler (especially at the end of innings) and a useful batsman – specialising in flicked 6 shots, which helped us post many a decent score.

A key figure also at Riding Mill CC, Peter was vital to the club’s survival prior to its recent resurgance, dedicating his evenings and weekends to mowing the outfield and preparing the pitches. He was vital to the longstanding friendship between Mallards and RMCC.

Despite not playing in the last couple of years, Peter remained a true friend to the club, supporting us in the background. Our sincerest condolences go to his wife Alison, and their two daughters Rhianna and Bethan.

Paul Benneworth

It’s with great sadness that we have to report the loss of another Mallards legend, Paul Benneworth.

Not everyone may remember Paul, as it is several years since he last played for us (living and working in Holland and Norway does make the commute somewhat difficult), but those that do remember him fondly.

In many ways Paul – pictured front and centre below on our infamous tour of Ibiza – was the archetypal Mallard, highly enthusiastic, a very eccentric batting technique that required him to master the reverse sweep in order to score on the off-side, and a nightmare to manage in the field – frequently changing positions on a whim, or to get a better view of the game. Above all he was a lover of our post-match chat in the pub after every game. We know that he was hoping to return to the fold at some point and it’s a great regret to those of us who played with him before that this didn’t happen.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to his wife Leanne and his two young children, Theo and Martha. Donations can be made to two of the charities that Paul supported here.

paul ibiza

Leon Mexter

It is with great sadness that we have to report the sudden death of our friend, team-mate and club treasurer Leon Mexter. 

Leon was a stalwart of the club for more than a dozen years and will be a huge miss to everyone at Mallards CC. His dedication, sportsmanship and humour have contributed massively to the joy of playing for the club over that period. We will miss him greatly.

Our deepest condolences go out to Alice, Freddie and Hugo.

RIP Leon.

leon pic