Ron Murray has become Gala Cricket Club’s latest life member in recognition of his dedication to the club.

Ron was proposed as a life member at the Meigle Park club’s Annual General Meeting on Friday 3 February.

Ron said: “I am honoured to even be considered a life member of Gala Cricket Club.”

Regarded as one of the club’s best ever players, Ron became the first Gala batsman to score over 1,000 runs in a season, in 1970, with the previous best being held by Jim Mercer in 1897.

Also a talented wicketkeeper, Ron was captain over five seasons in three spells, leading Gala to the Border League title and Border KO Cup.

Since retiring Ron has proved many a wise word to young and senior players through coaching and one-to-one sessions in the nets.

He still contributes to the club as a loyal supporter, providing advice and guidance to the club’s players as well as helping maintain Meigle Park’s garden area with wife Kate.

He has also proved a keen cyclist, taking on many a challenge, most recently in 2019 as part of a team containing a number of club members who took part in a 250 miles charity cycle across the Borders.

While Ron was unable to make the AGM, he reflected afterwards: “There is no doubt I feel that I have taken much more from the club than I have given, in terms of friendships made, great experiences, life skills learnt and sheer enjoyment gained from just being involved in the club.

“To my mind, cricket is the best sport for any youngster to be involved in.

“Apart from anything else, the experience of having a good score one week and being out first ball the next, mirrors the ups and downs of life.”

The AGM reflected on a successful 2022 season, with thanks made to all players, members, supporters, sponsors, scorers and volunteers without whom the club wouldn’t exist.

The meeting also looked ahead to its 170th year in 2023, with the following appointments made on the night.

Co-Chairman: Mike Halls and Kenny Paterson; Secretary: Bruce Robertson; Treasurer: Alan Niven.

1st XI captain: Jack Halls; 1st XI vice-captain: Aashiq Rhode; 2nd XI captain: Liam Skeldon; 2nd XI vice-captain: Ross Patterson.

The club is still looking for volunteers who could lend a few hours to help with day-to-day running of the club. Tasks include ground maintenance, assisting with sponsorship or junior section admin, a bar shift during the season, driving a minibus to an away game, or any other skills you could offer the club.

If you can help or would like some further information on what responsibilities would be for a role at club, please contact [email protected].

Photo of Ron Murray and David Boland – credit Grant Kinghorn