PETER MARRON DIES
Former head groundsman of Lancs CCC
Peter Marron, who was head groundsman at Old Trafford for 25 years and worked at the club for over 30, has died aged 59.
According to reports Pete died suddenly in hospital following complications from bowel cancer.
Lancashire CCC issued a statement saying of Pete, "Winning the respect of players, umpires and Lancashire Members he was much loved and respected by all."
Stars of the game paid tribute to Pete on Twitter. Andrew Flintoff said, "The world lost a great man today a @LancsCCC legend and an amazing friend who took me under his wing when I was 16 #RIPPete #thankyou. Pete Marron will be missed by everyone xx #RIPPete lots of love to All the family x."
Michael Vaughan Tweeted, "A Great man.... Created the best Cricket pitches in the World... #RIPPets."
And Alec Stewart added, "Very sad to read Pete Marron has passed away.Great man & great groundsman who produced some of the best pitches I played on. @LancsCCC"
During his time at Old Trafford Pete won numerous awards for his excellent grounds and Test Match wickets, which helped to forge the reputation of the club as having one of the best Test pitches in the country.He oversaw the first music concert on the ground and also relaid the square twice during his time in charge.
He retired in 2008 and said at the time, “One thing I won’t miss is everyone telling me how to grow grass. Over the years I’ve learnt to take it all with a pinch of salt and let it go over your head.”
Following retirement from Old Trafford, in 2009 Pete became a consultant for Celebrity Crusies, overseeing natural lawn areas on their ships.
Pete onboard Celebrity Cruises
He said at the time, "When I first heard there was a lawn on-board a cruise ship I thought it was a complete wind-up and something that Freddie Flintoff had set up. But then when I found out that I was being asked to go out to Florida to assist in planning the on-going maintenance I became more interested!"
Lancashire CCC paid tribute to Pete saying, "He will be greatly missed and our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Marie and family."
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