TRIBUTES have been paid to a cricketer who passed away during a match.

West Chiltington and Thakeham Cricket Club (WCTCC) remembered “much loved” Tim Monday at their home ground last night after he passed away during their match against Middleton second team on Saturday.

Tim, 52, from Worthing, was the former club captain and notably led his teammates into the Sussex League for the first time in the club’s history.

Club members and players came together to pay their respects at the West Chiltington Recreation Ground last night.

Attendees were asked to bring along a bat, cricket memorabilia or some flowers to remember a man that the club said would be“sorely missed”.

When Tim first joined the club in 2012, he played for the Sunday team.

He then started playing for the Saturday XI in 2014 and led the side to success on a number of occasions.

A spokesman for the club said: “Our former club captain Tim Monday passed away during Saturday’s home game with Middleton.

“The whole club is in a state of shock and our hearts go out to his family, especially his son and our team mate Jack, at this extremely sad time.

“Tim also played in Aldershot as a youth and in Durban, South Africa as well as locally with Wisborough Green.

“He led both Wisborough Green and West Chiltington into the County League and will be sorely missed by both his local clubs and many opponents who relished the challenge he set but also enjoyed his company on and off the field.”

Players from other clubs who played against Tim were also asked to go to West Chiltington last night to remember a “much loved and sadly missed individual”.

Billingshurst Cricket Club sent out a message on Twitter on Saturday, saying: “Cricket put in perspective this evening. Our thoughts and prayers are with our good friends at WCTCC and the family and friends of Tim Monday #RIP.”

Tributes flooded in over Facebook with friends telling of their shock at his sudden passing.

Craig Pulling wrote: “Devastating news. I was so glad when Tim moved across to WCTCC as captain .

“I truly believe this heralded a new period for the club. A great player and a great bloke to have around the club.”

David Robinson added: “Such horrible news to wake up to today. A great clubman, captain and mate. Will be sadly missed, our thoughts go out to Jem and family in this difficult time.”

Steve Ward said: “Really is just awful news. What a cracking guy, so much fun, and such a symbolic characteristic of a special family club. Too young to die.”

Many also spoke of his dedication to youth cricket.

Jean Farnes wrote: “Such sad news. Tim was such a lovely man. He always made time to talk to all the youngsters, helping them with their game. Sending love to all the family and all involved at our wonderful club. I’m sure his smile will live on in the hearts of all at the club.”

Julia Aichroth said: “Such devastating news. So sad. Tim was such a lovely, friendly chap, full of fun.”