It is with great sadness that we have to report that Brian Willmott sadly passed away on Friday 8th May 2026 aged 82 years. For many years he had been battling cancer but was always positive and determined to carry on life with a sense of normality.

Brian was involved in Bexley CC when his two sons, Ian and Lee, joined as young cricketers and took over as full time groundsman in 1988 before passing on his great knowledge to Dave Sealey in 2008 when he retired.

Brian loved cricket and was also a very keen fisherman. He took great pride in the ground and was devoted to making Manor Way one of the best grounds in the County and in the winter prepared up to three grass hockey pitches for Burnt Ash Hockey Club before the move to all weather facilities. He was very accommodating and would do all he could to get as many fixtures scheduled as possible.

It was very rare for a request for a pitch, improvements around the ground and the pavilion or any other odd job to be refused. If he could physically do it, Brian would, usually with a smile. That was the character of the man.
Brian was a very caring person, polite always and loved by many at the club. He was known by many as the Gentle Giant. His love of Bexley CC and cricket in general reflected in the pride and hard work he undertook.

He will be very sadly missed but the memories of him will never be forgotten nor will his kindness and generosity.

The funeral and service of remembrance will take place at Eltham Crematorium, Falconwood, on Thursday 21st May at 11.00am followed by friends and family all joining together at Bexley Cricket Club from 12.00pm onwards.
The family would prefer donations to Cancer Research UK rather than flowers.

RIP Brian