OLDSWINFORD cricket stalwart Jim Hingley has been honoured by the county following 48 years of unstinting service to his club.

Jim, who will be 60 this year, was given a Lifetime Achievement award at Worcestershire Cricket Board's annual OSCA's (Outstanding Service to Cricket Awards) and he will now go forward to represent the county at a star-studded ceremony at cricket headquarters Lords in early October.

Jim, of Hagley Road, joined his beloved Oldswinford Cricket Club in 1967 when he turned out for their under-13 side.

Since then, he has given loyal service to the club as both a player and official.

He was social secretary from 1983 to 1998.

From then, he became chairman and has seen the club prosper under his leadership.

Jim has also presided over the redevelopment of the club's facilities, helping to secure grants of over £80,000.

Club secretary Ken Slater said: "Jim has done everything at the club. He was second XI captain for 16 years and helped many youngsters make the transition from junior to senior cricket.

"But it wasn't unusual to see him sweeping up the club patio or climbing onto the roof to do repairs.

"He even used to score for the first XI as a youngster.

"Added to that, Jim is a very mild mannered man and is often seen as a calming influence and keeps everyone on a level keel."

Oldswinford currently run five adult, eight junior and three girls teams in addition to becoming the first Worcestershire side to provide cricket for children with disabilities.