WORCESTERSHIRE County Cricket Club have paid tribute to sports journalist and lifelong Pears supporter John Curtis.
The club are mourning the loss of Curtis who died at the age of 68 on Thursday, April 3 following a short illness.
Curtis, known as JC, first became involved with the Pears as a junior member in his teenage years – joining as the club’s very first junior member.
He operated the old scoreboard at the Diglis End which started a lifelong relationship between himself and the club.
Curtis began his early career in journalism working for local weekly newspapers and later covered Worcester City.
He later helped shape editorial content for programmes at Aston Villa, Manchester City, Everton, and Leeds United.
However, he soon became a regular fixture at New Road with his reporting on Brian Lara’s 501 not out for Warwickshire in 1994 earning him a permanent position with the Press Association.
He went on to cover England football matches at home and abroad including at World Cup’s from 1998 onwards.
Curtis dedicated his later years to covering Worcestershire’s men’s, women’s and pathway teams becoming the club’s trusted voice and friendly face in the press box.
He also served as vice-chair of the Worcestershire Cricket Society, secretary of the Worcestershire Supporters’ Association and compiled in-depth newsletters for the club’s supporters.
The club presented Curtis with the David Exall Award for outstanding service with his name immortalised in the newly renamed Curtis, Oldnall and Beddow Press Lounge.
Worcestershire CEO, Ashley Giles said: “John was the heartbeat of the press box and a treasured part of the Worcestershire family.
“His passion for the club was matched only by his kindness, humility and tireless commitment to telling our story with care and authenticity.
“Whether it was the first ball of the season or the last word of a report, John brought New Road to life for many. We will miss his words, his warmth, and his friendship deeply.”
