MORE than 500 people were in attendance to say goodbye to a popular Redditch sportsman who recently lost his brave battle against cancer.
Brian Bisp, who had been battling against a rare tumour, died at the age of 61 and last week his family and many friends were at St Stephen’s Church in Redditch and afterwards the Southcrest Manor Hotel to say a fond farewell to a man known to many people in the town and beyond for his work at Redditch Cricket Club.
Despite the severe nature of his illness Brian, who leaves behind wife Sue, son Warren and daughter Grace, put up a brave fight to the end with the help of his loving family.
Brian was an active sportsman throughout his life – both playing and mentoring – and many of today’s cricketers who play for Redditch Entaco Cricket Club came through the junior ranks under the guidance of Brian.
Along with Paul Lees, Brian instigated Redditch to field a fourth team many years ago – a move which has allowed the club to give more players the opportunity to play and enjoy the sport of cricket.
Fittingly, the 4th XI became Worcestershire League Division Nine champions this season, thanks in no small part to this true gentleman of local sport.
Redditch CC batsman and first team captain Luke Davis said: “Brian was involved at the club for more than 20 years as a player, coach and first team manager and was a friend and mentor to a lot of players through that time.
“He was a great clubman and a man who gave me so much support as long as I’ve known him. Everyone will miss him tremendously.”
