Worcestershire CCC members will be asked to approve the appointment of Cecil Duckworth CBE as the new club President at the club’s AGM in the Graeme Hick Pavilion on March 20, 2019 at 7.00pm.
Norman Gifford MBE is standing down as President at the end of his maximum two year term and the club’s Nominations Committee and Board are recommending Mr Duckworth as his successor.
Mr Duckworth has a strong association already with the County and played a major role in the County signing Australian paceman Glenn McGrath for the 2000 campaign.
He also aided significantly with the development of the Basil D’Oliveira Stand.
Mr Duckworth founded Worcester Engineering Company Limited in the early 1960s, and introduced the first combination boiler in 1970 before selling the company to the Bosch Group in 1992.
He became Executive Chairman of Worcester Warriors and his involvement helped the club to grow and move through the divisions before being promoted to the English Premiership in 2004.
Mr Duckworth has also set up several charities including the Worcestershire Duckworth Trust.
Worcestershire CCC Chairman Fanos Hira paid tribute to the contribution of former County captain Norman Gifford and the qualities of Cecil Duckworth.
He said: “The Nominations Committee and the Board recommends the appointment of Mr Cecil Duckworth CBE as our new President, as Norman Gifford MBE has reached the end of his maximum two-year term.
“Norman has been an excellent President – not afraid to challenge thinking – a great ambassador for our Club and the game. The Board, fully supports asking our members to admit Norman as an Honorary Life Vice – President.
“Cecil, for those in the County, needs little introduction; a brilliant engineer and businessman, and a keen supporter of the community and sport, which extends well beyond the development of Worcester Warriors.
“Cecil has a strong association with Worcestershire CCC. The Board is delighted that he has accepted this nomination. His efforts when John Elliot was Chairman (1998-2006), resulted in not only the signing of Glen McGrath but also the development of the Basil D’Oliveira stand.”
