Worcestershire County Cricket Club are mourning the passing of legendary Club Reporter John Curtis, a journalist, storyteller, and lifelong Pears supporter whose tireless dedication and passion for the Club leaves a legacy that will last for generations. John passed away peacefully in the early hours of Thursday morning, following a short illness.
Affectionately known as “JC”, John was not just the most prolific writer in the Club’s long history. Whether capturing the drama of a county clash or sharing the quieter triumphs of Club life, John’s words brought New Road to life, day after day, season after season. His deep love for Worcestershire, kind spirit, and unwavering work ethic made him a cherished figure both on and off the field.
John’s journey with the Club began in his teenage years, when he joined as the very first Junior Pears member and operated the old scoreboard at the Diglis End. It was the start of a lifelong relationship with Worcestershire, one that grew stronger with every summer. His early career in journalism began at local weekly newspapers before moving to the Worcester Evening News, where he covered Worcester City FC and honed his craft under the guidance of seasoned professionals.
In 1989, he was recruited by the legendary Mike Beddow to join his freelance team, a moment that would shape John’s career profoundly. Together, they chronicled the stories of football Clubs across the country and built editorial content for programmes at Aston Villa, Manchester City, Everton, and Leeds United. But it was New Road, and the people who made it special, that always held the deepest place in John’s heart.
His unforgettable reporting of Brian Lara’s 501* for Warwickshire in 1994 earned him a permanent position with the Press Association, where he went on to cover England football matches at home and abroad, including World Cups from 1998 onwards. Yet no matter how far he travelled, Worcester was always home. He returned to dedicate his later years to covering all aspects of Worcestershire cricket, men’s, women’s, and pathways, as the Club’s trusted voice and friendly face in the press box.
John’s writing had warmth and insight; his interviews were full of empathy. His friendships with players, coaches and fellow journalists were deep and genuine. When an illness struck a few years ago, a leading football manager called him not from a desk or hotel, but from the Wembley tunnel after the FA Cup Final, a testament to the respect and affection John inspired in everyone he met.
Beyond journalism, John served as Vice-Chair of the Worcestershire Cricket Society, Secretary of the Worcestershire Supporters’ Association, and the compiler of countless in-depth newsletters that kept members informed and engaged. His contribution to the Club was formally recognised in recent years with the David Exall Award for outstanding service, and his name was immortalised in the newly renamed Curtis, Oldnall & Beddow Press Lounge, a tribute to three of Worcestershire’s most dedicated chroniclers.
Whether fixing the press box coffee machine, trading stories about music, or debating the merits of a cover drive, John created an atmosphere that was as much about friendship and laughter as it was about journalism. His energy, enthusiasm, and generous spirit made him impossible to forget.
Worcestershire CEO Ashley Giles commented, “John was the heartbeat of the press box and a treasured part of the Worcestershire family.
“His passion for the Club was matched only by his kindness, humility and tireless commitment to telling our story with care and authenticity.
“Whether it was the first ball of the season or the last word of a report, John brought New Road to life for many. We will miss his words, his warmth, and his friendship deeply.”
John is survived by a grateful sporting community that will miss him dearly. His words, his wit, and his love for Worcestershire will echo around the Club forever and the thoughts of the whole Club are with John’s partner and family at this sad time.
Rest easy, JC. The scoreboard may stop ticking, but your stories will always live on.
