Worcestershire CCC are to stage a testimonial event in honour of Martin Watts, who spent 40 years as part of the ground staff at New Road.
Martin, now aged 61, was forced to retire two years ago after suffering a dislocated knee cap and a broken ankle during a fall at home.
He sustained the injuries whilst carrying shopping from the supermarket for his parents and was the prime carer for both of them until his father recently passed away.
Worcestershire CCC Cricket Steering Group Chairman, Paul Pridgeon, confirmed that a six-a-side tournament featuring the Worcestershire players will be staged at New Road at the start of next season, with the proceeds going to Martin.
It is being organised by former Worcestershire CCC Club Chairman John Elliott.
In addition, a donations page for Martin has been set up for anyone who would like to make a donation in appreciation of his four decades of service at New Road.
Pridgeon confirmed that Worcester born Martin, who became part of the ground-staff in 1979, will also be awarded an annual Worcestershire CCC membership free of charge.
He said: “I first got to know Martin when I was a player here, and I know how dedicated he was to this club and the work that he put in as one of the right-hand man of several Head Groundsmen.
“Life has been challenging for him since he had to retire, being a full-time carer for his parents until his dad recently passed away, something he also did when working in recent years.
“The club wants to show their appreciation of Martin with this six a side cricket tournament, hopefully, next April, and fundraising through donations, not only as a thank you for his loyal service but also as a bit of help for him in a challenging period.
“The annual free membership is also the least we could do for Martin and is well deserved.”
Martin said: “I can’t thank the club enough for this wonderful gesture, a club that remains a big piece of my heart.
“I used to love the work, the banter with the players, and Sir Ian Botham always stopped for a chat, and he, along with Jim Cumbes, was my favourite Worcestershire player.”
