Old Elizabethans Alan Bisson and Mick Fooks have joined a select list of Island cricketing legends elected to have the honour of being named on seats, with the unveiling taking place earlier this month.
Only five men have scored more runs for Guernsey in Inter-Insular matches than Bisson, who made two half-centuries against Jersey including a superb highest-score of 92 in 1960 of which the Guernsey Press report stated he hit ‘some glorious boundary shots and was a little unlucky not to reach his century'.
Spending much time away to further his future working career, he came home as often as possible and his bat was quickly back in use, especially against touring sides like Incogniti, scoring 112 in 1961 and 199 two years later. In fact, a domestic century came most summers with one of the most memorable being for the OEs against Old Victorians in 1968 when his ‘sensational’ 144 came up in just 115 minutes and included three sixes and 22 fours.
Bisson also turned his arm over to good effect, with Elizabeth College cricket master Vernon Collenette writing ‘his medium slow bowling has been of great value to the side, he moves the ball in the air and off the pitch and varies his pace with great skill'.
His fellow OE Fooks has been one of the most familiar faces on the Guernsey cricket scene for decades, whether it be playing, umpiring, coaching or in an administrative role – very few have given more to the game locally.
He was one of the best wicketkeepers the island has produced and wore the gloves in 10 Inter-Insulars, including the memorable 10-wicket win in 1974.
His league career was played out mainly with Pessimists, Cobo and Taverners, winning every honour available to him along the way.
Fooks always had an interest in and was involved with cricket administration. He served as Guernsey Cricket Association president from 1981-83 and also sat on the Channel Islands Cricket Board.
During the unveiling of their benches last weekend, another former GCA president, Brian Le Prevost, was asked to say a few words.
‘I have known both Alan and Mick for decades as we are all octogenarians and have spent a great deal of time on this hallowed turf,’ he said.
‘Alan and Mick both began their cricketing lives at Elizabeth College and the rest is cricketing history which I and many others have enjoyed.
‘Alan was a classical opening batsman who invariably scored heavily in his elegant style.
‘Mick was a very fine and energetic wicketkeeper over a long career. He is now often seen walking around the boundary with another other gentleman – that’s me. Mick’s great claim to fame is his impression of Mick Jagger.
‘Both fully deserve this honour.’
In addition to the honour bestowed on Bisson and Fooks last weekend, there were also two new plaques unveiled on the KGV Clubhouse which thank people for the significant contributions they have made to the playing fields.
Former chairman of the KGV Colin Bromley and John Stone, a significant benefactor, were the latest recipients of that honour.
