Peter Walker dead at 84: Tributes pour in as former England and Glamorgan cricketer dies after suffering stroke

FORMER England and Glamorgan cricketer Peter Walker 84 has died aged 84 after suffering a stroke.

All-rounder Walker played three Tests for England in 1960 before later retiring from the sport and working as a broadcaster.

He was awarded an MBE in 2011 and served as president of Glamorgan Cricket Club.

In a tribute Glamorgan described Walker as “a club legend” and “the finest close catcher” in the county game.

His tally of 609 Championship catches is the fifth highest in the history of the English competition.

Chairman Gareth Williams said: “Everyone at Glamorgan is saddened to hear this news. Peter was a club legend, a man who gave everything he could to the club he loved while playing, and later in an off-field capacity.

“He gave so much back to the game, in particular through his work with Cricket Wales and the National Cricket Centre, and through his outstanding service as President of Glamorgan.”

In 1961, a year after his spell in the England side for the series against South Africa, Walker performed the treble as he scored 1,347 first-class runs, took 101 wickets in all games and held 73 catches.

In the history of county cricket, only Wally Hammond and Micky Stewart have bettered this outstanding seasonal return.

Glamorgan chief executive Hugh Morris added: “A combination of world-class catching ability, aggressive batting and accurate spin made him a triple threat and a brilliant all-rounder.

“He helped Glamorgan to win a County Championship title and represented England, making him a true legend of the club.

“We may never see another player quite like him, and he will be missed by everyone at the club. Our thoughts go out to his family, and his friends.”

After retiring from playing in 1972, Walker was a popular broadcaster working for BBC Wales.

BBC Wales director Rhodri Talfan Davies, said: “Peter made the switch from cricket to broadcasting in the blink of an an eye – becoming a familiar voice to millions.

“Peter was always the consummate professional – admired for his warmth, intelligence and forensic all-round sporting knowledge.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends.”

Alan Wilkins, who also played for Glamorgan and then joined the BBC Wales team, shared his heartbreak on Twitter.

He wrote: “Terribly saddened to hear of the passing of Peter Walker, Glamorgan & England, aged 84.

“Not just a cricketer with an amazing FC record of 17,650 runs, 834 wickets & 697 catches, but a gentleman of note. “Hookey” gave me my break in television with @BBCSport. RIP Peter Walker.”