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It is with deep sadness that
we have to report the death of Bill Shepherd after a short illness.
Bill was David’s older brother by what we are reliable informed is just
eighteen months. An all-round sportsman Bill played Rugby for South Molton,
Football for Bideford. He also played Hockey and was a more than a useful
Darts & Skittles player. If that wasn’t enough he wasn’t the world’s worst
golfer either. The one sport he excelled in above all others was cricket
In the late 1950’s early 1960’s Bill was on the Lord’s ground staff as a
young and promising batsman and left arm spinner. He achieved the
distinction of scoring a 100 at Lords for the MCC Young Professionals a
feat many cricketers only dream about. A little known fact is that in 1959
the two brothers actually played against each other, David playing for
English Schools and Bill representing MCC Young Professionals. We have yet
to find out the result of the match
Bill returned to his Instow home in the early 1960’s to help run the
family business with his mother Dolly. The post office at Instow was the
hub of the village with Bill its main stay until his retirement a few
years ago.
Bill had a wicked sense of humour which kept everyone on their toes.
During his post office years he continued playing cricket for North Devon
CC & Devon achieving many fine performances with both bat and ball.
For away Devon league matches a fast car (usually with Nigel Evans
driving) would be waiting outside the post office at 1pm - engine running
to whisk Bill to the game.
A testament to his bravery as well his cricket ability!
During the last few years he umpired the seconds and thirds where his
decision making was on a par with David’s
Colin Payne Club Chairman said
Its very sad news to hear that Bill Shep passed away late last night. I'm
sure all those who knew Bill will be as saddened as I am by this news. A
super cricketer and a great bloke - he will be missed by us all. This is a
double blow for the club so soon after the death of David. Our thoughts go
Jenny who has lost a husband and brother in law in such a short space of
time.
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