CHILLED OUT..

As a feeble attempt to feel part of the local community, each time we go to Cornwall I always buy the local newspaper, normally the Cornish Guardian and last week`s edition contained an eye catching article about one of our sporting heroes.

Today, another Test Match begins at Trent Bridge, Nottingham and I`m reminded once more of the unforgettable Ashes series - `Botham`s Ashes` - of 1981.   One of the players who took part in that series was the gentleman shown in the photo above.   Chris Old played in 46 Test Matches for England taking 143 wickets and over 1,000 wickets in his distinguished first class career.   He was affectionately known as `Chilly.`  C. Old = cold = chilly.  Geddit? 

He had the good sense to move to Cornwall when his playing days were over and for some years until the recession bit, he ran the Clipper Fish Restaurant at Praa Sands.   These days at the age of 63, as well as maintaining his cricket coaching for youngsters at Falmouth Cricket Club, he is working for 24 hours a week on the checkout at Sainsbury`s Truro supermarket. 


In an age when England cricketers can earn up to £400,000 a year and countless thousands more from sponsorship, endorsements and what have you, it`s worth remembering that Chris was paid just £1300 for a five months tour of Pakistan back in the early `70s.   But he looks happy and contented enough, as should Sainsbury`s to have such a cricketing legend in their ranks.


Well played, Chilly!