Tribute to David Morgan (67)
At the end of the 1990 season the county needed fresh ideas, someone with a modern approach, someone who could build bridges and bring the county together – step forward one David Morgan.
Dave was already a much respected bowler at Sunderland and he loved a challenge so when the opportunity to become the county secretary he jumped at it and boy how lucky were we.
His enthusiasm for the sport shone through, he bought a modern fresh approach to the role which rubbed off on those around him.
A complete overhaul of the administration of the county and team selection, young guns were given there opportunities to show their talent. His impact was immediate, as in 1991 we beat Middlesex in the final of the Liberty Trophy. The next seven years proved frustrating so Dave appointed a team manager – Norman Routledge, between them they made changes, those promising youngsters when given their heads and it paid dividends as we notched up another six wins and two runners up making us the most successful county in the Liberty Trophy.
In 2010 Norman was taken from us and an emotional Liberty final that year saw us beat Berkshire.
Sadly in 2016 we were rocked when Dave took ill so Alan Cooper temporarily stepped into the secretary’s role. Dave’s health gradually deteriorated and it was clear he would not return to the job he made his own.
In 2017 he was awarded an Honorary Life Membership of the EIBA.
Dave was normally a picture of health but what followed over the next six years was heart-breaking to watch.
Sadly there was no improvements in Dave’s health and on June 16 he passed away peacefully in hospital.
Not only has the sport lost one of the best administrators but we as a county have lost a very dear friend who was much loved…… god bless.