HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to Ken Mills MBE, the long-serving chairman of the Worcestershire CCC Supporters’ Association who has passed away at the age of 77.
The respected former president of Worcestershire CCC died after a lengthy battle against illness.
As well as chairing the association for 41 years, Ken oversaw the purchase of New Road by the association for the county in 1977 from Worcester Cathedral for £30,000.
He was involved in many other projects which included helping to organise coach trips to away matches for supporters for 40 years until they ceased in 2011 as well as organise the popular Fifty-Fifty competition.
It has been estimated that the association has raised £6.5 million at current values during his time as chairman.
Ken and his late wife, Pat, the association’s secretary for 40 years, already have a stand in front of the Premier Inn named by the club in their honour.
Worcestershire CEO Tom Scott paid tribute to Ken and his achievements.
“It is a sad day in the history of the club and Ken Mills has been an iconic figure at New Road for many decades,” he said.
“He has played such a major role as chairman in being involved in many projects at New Road which, without the support of the Association, would have been difficult to fulfil and come to fruition.
“Ken had a deep love for this cricket club and on behalf of the club may I pass on condolences to his family.”
Director of Cricket Steve Rhodes said: “Ken has been an amazing person for Worcestershire County Cricket Club.
“When you look around the ground, the amount of contributions the Supporters’ Association – and Ken has played a role in – have helped the club is many fold.
“To be chairman for over 40 years is an amazing achievement and his memory – and the role of the Association – will live on and on,” he added.
