50 Not Out for Irving

Irving Spates says he has enjoyed a good innings at Gray-Nicolls in Station Road, Robertsbridge - despite having only ever played cricket once in his life as a schoolboy.

Irving started at the factory in 1950, aged 15, working under Bill Lucking, and used to live opposite the factory at it's old premises further up Station Road.

He said: "I was going to stay on at school and this turned up, so I took the job.

"I lived in the village and knew Mr Lucking at the time."

Irving started working in the mill, sweeping up and burning the sawdust created by making the bats.

He said: "I went on to make bats when we were at Brightling Road.

"I used to do all the packing at one stage."

Irving used to run the packing department.

The company supplies equipment all over the world to high street shops and players at all levels of the game, from aspiring youngsters to international athletes.

Numerous famous cricketers have visited Robertsbridge.

Irving has carefully quality checked every bat and was responsible for picking bats out for buyers and ensure the right bats went to the right customers.

For the last 20 years, Irving has also done all the bat repairs on site, restoring them to their former glory.

He has seen many changes at Gray-Nicolls during his 50 years, and not just the numerous changes in the design and style of the cricket bats themselves.

Irving retires on February 17, the day before his 65th birthday, and will mark the occasion with a celebratory meal with his work colleagues.

He has plenty of hobbies to keep him busy during his retirement, including photography, collecting vinyl, walking and cycling.

And, of course, spending time with his eight grandchildren.

Irving said: "I have enjoyed my 50 years working for company.

"It's been a steady income and I have enjoyed it."

Neil Gray, Operations Director said: "We all enjoy Irving's company and his friendly knowledgeable approach to his work is appreciated by all our customers.

"He's been a brilliant, dedicated and skilful craftsman and will be greatly missed."