TRIBUTE has been paid to a popular cricketer who died after being taken ill during a game.

Ian Wycherley became unwell at a Haworth second XI match at Bingley on Saturday, and died shortly afterwards in Bradford Royal Infirmary. He was 56.

This week, shocked colleagues at Haworth Cricket Club paid tribute to the “gentle giant”.

And councillors spoke of the community’s devastation.

A club committee member said: “The sudden loss of Ian has hit everyone at the club very hard.

“He was a local gentle giant – known to many – and was such a lovely guy, always wanting to help in any way he could.

“He had a way with him that could make people smile, we will all miss him very much.

"Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to his family at this devastating time.”

A minute’s silence was held before Haworth’s under-9s game on Sunday and it will be repeated ahead of all league games this weekend.

Worth Valley ward councillor Rebecca Poulsen, who lives in Haworth, said the community had been left devastated.

“From speaking to people who knew Ian it’s clear he was an extremely popular and well-liked young guy who loved playing cricket,” she said.

“Everyone is shocked and devastated at the sudden loss.

“My thoughts go out to his family, friends and club colleagues at this terrible time.”

Her condolences are echoed by the chairman of Haworth, Cross Roads and Stanbury Parish Council, Cllr David Mahon.

He added: “It’s such a shock for the whole community and so sad.

“My deepest thoughts are with the family and all who knew him.”

Several tributes to Mr Wycherley, a painter and decorator, have also been posted online.

The Haworth club tweeted: “RIP Ian, gone far too soon. You will be greatly missed by everyone at the club. Condolences to Joanie and the rest of the family. Stay strong and everyone at the club will be here for you.”

Trevor Coe, fixture secretary with the Mewies Solicitors Craven & District League, said everyone across the league was devastated.

“It is difficult when one loses a member of the cricket fraternity but clubs rally round to show their support,” he added.

“On the unofficial Craven Cricket League Facebook page it was amazing to see messages from numerous clubs and players.”

Mr Wycherley had been married for ten years to Josephine.

They lived at Haworth until about two years ago, when they moved to Oakworth.

He had come to Cross Roads as a six-year-old child.

And apart from a spell living away in young adulthood, he spent his whole life in the Worth Valley area.

Mr Wycherley leaves Josephine, two children, six step-children and six grandchildren.

The funeral service will take place at The Knowle chapel of rest, Keighley, at 10.30am next Wednesday (June 12), followed by Oakworth Crematorium at 11.30am.