Everybody associated with Keighley Cricket Club would like to wish Richard 'Woody' Wood the very best as he embarks on a new chapter of his cricketing career. Woody is joining Aire Wharfe club Harden, to play alongside his brother Simon, after 14 glorious years of service at Lawkholme Lane.

 

Winning the Second Division Championship and Heavy Woollen Cup triumph were the major highlights of Richard’s KCC career. Woody's time at Keighley Cricket Club has been characterized by his unwavering passion, loyalty and commitment to the cause and he has been one of the best and most consistent wicketkeepers in the League, year in year out. Woody's aggressive batting has often been underrated and he has helped to win games, or battle for hard-fought draws on many occasions.

 

In an age when it is often claimed there are ‘no characters left in the game’, Richard certainly challenged that myth. A quiet man off the field, Richard was known throughout the League for his unquenchable will-to-win and competitive nature. We would like to wish Richard good luck for his move to Harden and he will be missed, on and off the field, at Lawkholme Lane. We hope you can find the time to call down through the season Richard when cricket commitments allow, as you will always be offered a warm welcome at KCC.

Messages

Richard, Congratulations on your fine service and achievements at Keighley Cricket Club. I had the pleasure to play 7 or 8 years with you and always knew what level of passion and commitment we'd get from you each week, playing in the Heavy Woollen together was my finest playing memory together. Memories off the field and in the dressing room is where I'd like to think we became very close mates and continue that to this day. They will never replace the 'Lemon head' drinking days.

I wish you continued success in your cricket at Harden, the smaller grounds will no doubt benefit that straight drive 6 although be careful as the sledging behind the stumps can be heard easily ha ha. Look forward to having a beer with you in August. Dale Towler

My memories of Woody go back to the year 2000, (blimey - 10 years ago now). He always reminded me of the big, strong, red haired Scotsman alongside William Wallace in the movie "Braveheart" I could never understand him when yelling out in the field. One guy you'd love having with you in the trenches at war. Big-hearted, committed, passionate and obviously very loyal to his beloved club. Great innings Woody. There's a lot of Saturdays in those 14 years. Justin Ferguson, Melbourne, Australia

It's hard to believe that it is over 10 years since I played with Keighley and Woody. I remember Woody as a great, positive team player with plenty of chat both on and off the field. He was quality with the gloves, stopping my leg side wides with ease and catching everything that came his way. In the year that I played he was a very useful contributor with the bat when required, a busy character at the crease and never threw his wicket away. Good luck Woody for the coming season! Tim Arnold, Melbourne, Australia