A Darlington cricket club is mourning the loss of one of its finest ever players.

Norman Wilson, 80, a former member of Darlington RA Cricket Club, died at his home in Willow Road, Darlington.

Mr Wilson, known as Big Norm to his friends, started his sports career in the early 1940s. He retired in 1964.

He captained the RA club and played as a professional for Seaham Park in the early- 1950s.

The player was known as one of the finest bowlers in North-East cricket during that time, with his ability to bowl medium pace and off-spin.

He was a consistent wicket taker, returning some remarkable figures, with a career best of 9-31 off 21 overs against Thornaby in 1961.

Mr Wilson will be missed by all his friends at the cricket club.

A funeral service will be held at the West Cemetery Chapel, Darlington, on Friday, at 11am, prior to interment