23. C.HAZELGROVE 1974-1976

Charles Hazelgrove had played for many years for Brighton and Hove C.C. before he joined Bexley in 1957. He was then almost forty years of age, but was still a good wicket keeper/batsman and he played several seasons for the 1st XI.
After retiring as a player he served the Club most devotedly in a number of ways. He was Chairman in 1967-1969 and again in 1973. and was closely involved in a number of important decisions taken by the Club at that time. The most important of these were the decisions to enter into a long-term partnership with Burnt Ash Hockey Club, and to build Squash Courts.
He was also 1st XI / A Xl umpire for several season, when he was, easily recognisable as he sat on his shooting stick.
He was a keen student of the game and frequently took players on one side after a match to explain to them, at some length, what they had done wrong. Not all the players appreciated being given advice, particularly after doing badly, but as it was usually accompanied by a 'Hazelgrove Half” the blow was somewhat softened.
By profession Charles was a senior accountant with the electricity supply industry. There is a commemorative plaque in the pavilion, donated by his friend in the industry at the time or his death in 1976. His son John and son-in-law David Holland were also prominent playing members of the Club.