Tributes paid to popular Wirral cricketer and rugby coach

Martyn Smith, who has died aged 56 after a short illness, played cricket at Irby before joining Birkenhead Park for the 1990 season as wicket keeper.

He went on to play for the club until the end of the 2000 season during which time he captained the 1st XI in 1997 and 1998 and scored over 4,000 runs. 

Martyn then moved back to Irby where he saw out his career. 

Everyone at Irby Cricket Club are deeply saddened with the news of the passing of former Club Captain, opening batsman and committee member Martyn Smith. Our thoughts are with Joe, Bethan and the family and all his friends at this extremely sad time.

— Irby Cricket Club (@IrbyCC) November 29, 2023

Martyn, who was educated at Calday Grange Grammar School, was also a well known figure at Caldy RFC. 

A spokesman for the club said: "Caldy RFC are saddened to announce the passing of former Caldy coach Martyn Smith, aged 56 years at Arrowe Park Hospital, following a short illness.

Such sad news - a great bloke and beloved friend to so many.

Seen here early in his Park career c.1990, he fitted straight into an already iconic Park lineup as a dashing wk/bat.

Ray Digman Trophy 1991
Player of the Year 1994
Club Captain 1997-98

RIP The Vicar https://t.co/9yDwslsLno pic.twitter.com/SBFr6EoYpq

— Birkenhead Park CC (@bpcc1846) November 29, 2023

"Martyn leaves behind two children Joe, 22, and Bethan, 25, who have both been involved at the club since an early age. Martyn was a valued member of the club and coached Joe’s age group from Under 6s and stayed with the side until they reached senior colts.

"Martyn will be missed by all. Rest In Peace Martyn."