CRICKET stalwart Graham Headley, one of the key administrators in the Horwath Pulleyn Heselton York Vale League, has died at the age of 49 after suffering a stroke.

A driving force behind the Aldby Park club Mr Headley was a tireless worker since his club joined the league in 1985.

He was a member of the league's management committee, grounds sub-committee and a delegate to the York and Scarborough Area Cricket Council.

Mr Headley farmed at Buttercrambe and was a noted potato grower.

"He was a larger than life character who will be badly missed by everyone in local cricket," said Vale League secretary Tony Hargrave.

Aldby Park merged with the Stamford Bridge club last season and the Bridge 3rd XI played in the Vale League.

Mr Headley leaves a widow, Jill, and two sons, Neil and Robin.

The funeral service and interment will be held at Buttercrambe Church on Thursday at 2.30pm.

Updated: 09:06 Tuesday, March 12, 2002