A LIMITED edition painting signed by some of England’s biggest cricket stars has been donated to the University of Worcester.
The print shows Lord’s cricket ground during the centenary tour Ashes Test in June 1977 between England and Australia and has been signed by the whole team including Graham Gooch, Geoffrey Boycott, David Gower and Sir Ian Botham, as well as the artist Alan Fearnley.
The painting was donated by Clive Read, after learning of the university’s strong interest in cricket and its established partnership with Worcestershire County Cricket Club (WCCC).
Significantly, the university delivers the only BSc. Hons in cricket coaching and management degree in the UK, and its graduates include Daryl Mitchell, the Worcestershire captain.
The picture now sits in the university’s St John’s Campus sports centre.
“I’m delighted my late uncle’s signed limited edition print has found such a worthwhile home,” Mr Read said.
“He was a lifelong Worcestershire CCC fan and a headmaster, so it’s fitting the print is here at such a vibrant and progressive university for all to enjoy.”
Mick Donovan, head of the university’s Institute of Sport and Exercise Science, said: “We’re thrilled to receive such an historic painting and it now has pride of place within the university.
“It’s very fitting this comes to us at a time of exciting developments for sport and cricket.”
