FRIENDS have paid tribute to a former cricketer who devoted his life to promoting sport in York.
Henry McKnight, also known Mac or Arthur, started his cricketing career in Rufforth in his early teens.
Although he lived in Turnberry Drive, Acomb, the former insurance company worker was connected with Rufforth for almost 60 years by playing, umpiring and working tirelessly for the Playing Fields Association.
Mr McKnight, 73, was also an enthusiastic driving force behind the promotion of sports in Acomb.
Geoffrey Taylor, secretary and, like Mr McKnight a trustee of Rufforth Playing Fields, said: "Mac started his cricketing career with Rufforth in his early teens.
"The cricket pitch at the time was in a local farmer's field.
"The changing room was a railway carriage and the cows were an occasional hazard.
"Since then, he helped to raise thousands of pounds to build and maintain Rufforth Playing Fields. They are now regarded by many as among the best in the country.
"Mac will be greatly missed by the colleagues who worked alongside him."
Mr McKnight died on July 22 after a long illness. He leaves a widow, Barbara.
Updated: 09:40 Saturday, August 16, 2003
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