George Cousins

Born in June, 1922, George lived in Yeadon nearly all his life. His father died when he was only nine months old and his mother died when he was about eight years old. He was then brought up with aunties and uncles and older brothers, Bill and Fred.

He attended South View school in Yeadon and passed the entrance exam for Woodhouse Grove school at Rawdon but unfortunately was unable to take up the position.

He left school at 15 and went as an apprentice engineer (welder) to Yeadon Engineering. George played his early cricket at Yeadon Cricket Club with his older brother Bill, a fast bowler who in 1933 was given a

trial with Northamptonshire County Cricket Club but was unable to take up county cricket as a career due to a knee injury.

George joined the Royal Navy in 1941 stationed at Chatham Barracks and spent much of his time in the Pacific and Australia, with his younger brother Norman, where he made many long-lasting friends.

George returned in 1946 after the war back to Yeadon to carry on working for Yeadon Engineering. George thenspent a great deal of his

working life working forthe MoD at Barnbow, Leeds.

George started playing his cricket at Dawson Payne & Elliott (DP&E) at Otley, winning league and cup medals before moving to Otley Cricket Club in 1949 playing in the Airedale and Wharfedale League.

It was while George was playing at Otley he played in a testimonial match which included a young Brian Close who was on the verge of being called up for Test duty against New Zealand.

George opened the bowling and bowled the first ball to Close who unceremoniously launched the ball out of the ground and into the cemetery for six.

Somewhat thoughtful George bowled the next ball to Close who edged the ball to the slips to be caught by an even younger Jack van Geloven.

It wasn't until after the game George discovered there was a bet on as to who could hit the first six of the game. Although Close was six and out, he won the half crown bet.

George moved to Yeadon Cricket Club in 1957 in the Bradford League.

At this stage of his playing career he changed from seam up to off spin bowling where he became an accomplished bowler.

George also enjoyed the social side of the game, his cricketing widow Doris often remarked: "I think you only play cricket to work up a thirst for Saturday nights."

George retired from the beautiful game in 1976 aged 54, but continued to help and support the local teams until he died.

George's other passion in his later years was his love of very good red wine to which he was a member of several wine clubs. This passion he would share with his family and close friends, offering them a bottle or two to try for themselves.

George led an eventful and varied life and will be missed by many in the cricket and local communities.