SOUTH Devon Cricket Club has honoured long-serving player and official Joe Oliver by making him a life-member at their annual meeting.

Oliver (left) joined the Newton Abbot club as a junior way back in 1956 and, 53 years later, is still turning out in friendly and 2nd XI matches.

Even when brief spells with Paignton and Chudleigh are taken out, he has been a playing member of his home town club for more than 50 years.

Oliver played 43 times for Devon in Minor Counties games between 1967-1985. He captained South Devon in two spells – 1976 and 1984 – and was also club chairman.

There was a sombre note to the meeting, which stood in silent tribute in memory of former secretary Clive Angel, who died last year.

Clive was a well-known local journalist in the 1970s and 1980s, who worked for the Mid-Devon Times, Torquay Times and Western Morning News.

The meeting elected two new captains: David Knowles for the 1st XI and Ben Chadwick for the 2nd XI.

All other officers were re-elected, including secretary David Jervois, who has been administering the club's affairs since 1964.

South Devon are looking to strengthen their colts squads this season and were in the nets before Christmas.

Net practice under ECB qualified coaches continues every Sunday afternoon (4pm-6pm) in the sports hall at Seale Hayne College.

­For further details contact Matt Parsons on 07968 799774.