A MUCH-RESPECTED Oulton Park coach has collected the MBE he was handed in recognition of his 50 years service to cricket.

Tony Eustance, who is known for his efforts in coaching and helping talented youngsters, was named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List and received his award from her at Buckingham Palace.

Eustance, now living in West Yorkshire, was instrumental in forming Oulton Park’s impressive junior section which has recently seen Jonny Kettle graduate up to the Lancashire Academy.

Before enjoying success at Park’s Little Budworth ground, he was also a popular coach at Bunbury CC.

Park’s first XI skipper Nathan Dumelow said that Eustance’s honour was richly deserved. He said: “He is a fantastic coach and a very down-to-earth guy. He puts all his time and all his effort into cricket as it is his passion.

“A lot of the kids coming through now at Oulton Park have all been coached by Tony and are becoming class players on a senior level.

“He spent hours and hours putting the youngsters through their paces and now the likes of Jonny Kettle and Jimmy Guest are breaking through.”

Players are invited to attend Oulton Park’s senior nets sessions, which begin at Tarporley High School on Friday, February 6 (8-10pm). For details, contact Nathan Dumelow on 07984 450790.