Great Bear’ Keith Cook made cricket board honorary life vice president

Warwickshire’s former Cricket Operations manager Keith Cook (pictured) has been made an honorary life vice president by the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

‘Cookie’ retired on Day One of the new County Championship season to call time on a Bears career stretching back an incredible 51 years.

He was recently made an Honorary Life Member by Warwickshire in recognition of his outstanding service for more than half a century.  

And he’s now one the ECB’s first honorary life vice presidents as part of a new initiative designed to celebrate exceptional contributions to cricket.

Keith is one of six recipients – three from the professional game and three from recreational cricket – who were presented with commemorative silver bats to mark the honour at the ECB’s AGM in Southampton.

Richard Thompson, ECB chair, said: “This new accolade is about more than just long service, it’s about impact.

“These individuals have broken down barriers, inspired generations, and left lasting legacies.

“They embody the very best of cricket’s values: passion, perseverance, and a deep commitment to inclusion and excellence.”

Other recipients include former England and Gloucestershire fast bowler David Lawrence – the first British-born Black cricketer to represent the national team – and England legend Alec Stewart.

Recreational cricket recognition went to Raj Cherodian who’s volunteered at Ifield Cricket Club, Sussex for 30 years, Ron Pearson who’s spent 63 years transforming Gwersyllt Park Cricket Club into a community hub, and Helen Smith who’s devoted 47 years to Plymouth Civil Service & Roborough Cricket Club.

The ECB previously had no formal process at the highest level for recognising those who have made significant contributions to the game.

The new accolades will be awarded annually to a select few individuals who have helped grow the sport, broken down barriers, or given extraordinary service as players, volunteers, or employees.