FRIENDS and family of “a true Ellingham gent” gathered at the weekend for a memorial cricket match in his honour.

Bob Burrett died earlier this year following a long battle with pancreatic cancer.

The match was played between Ellingham Rugby Club and Lymington Cricket Club and Ellingham Cricket Club at Picket Post on Sunday, with each team captained by one of Bob’s sons.

Mark Burrett’s team lined up against his brother Neil’s team, adding a light-hearted touch of sibling rivalry to the 40-over match.

Mark’s team triumphed, scoring 280 runs, while Neil’s side was bowled out for 230. Neil, 34, presented the trophy to his younger brother.

Mark, 31, said it had been an emotional but fun-filled day.

He said. “Dad has always been part of the rugby and cricket clubs.

“We’ve been in Ellingham from year zero and we just thought we had to do something in his honour.”

A sizeable crowd turned out to support the match, which was accompanied by a hog roast, a Pimm’s tent, a raffle and other attractions.

The event raised nearly £3,000 for the Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund. Mark said: “We just wanted to show our gratitude to dad.

“When I put our plans on Facebook more than 100 people responded almost immediately; we had lots of prizes donated for the raffle as well. I’d like to thank everyone for their kind donations and support.”