🖤 The Passing of One of Our Former Players, Ian Buffham

🖤 We are saddened to hear of the passing of a former player, Ian Buffham, who passed away on Saturday following an illness over recent years.

Ian first joined St Annes CC as a player in 1962, playing predominantly in our 2nd XI and 3rd XI in a batting role and occasionally in our 1st XI where he was an asset to the team having been selected for his speed and exceptional fielding capabilities.

3rd XI 1986 – St Annes CC

3rd XI 1990 – St Annes CC

In the 1970’s, Ian’s work took him to Munich where he lived for several years. Here in the UK in 1971, he met a beautiful young lady called Judith and after their first date (which Ian was late for due to being held up on his journey home from playing cricket at Darwen CC), friendship and love blossomed and they became inseperable, and happily married for an incredbile 51 years.

Ian and Judith returned from Munich in 1979, and Ian rejoined his beloved St Annes CC playing for our 2nd XI.

Ian was more than a player.  He played an integral role at the club and he was admired and respected by all whose paths he crossed. He was a respectful and honourable gentleman.

During his time with us, and in addition to his many years representing Team Saints on the pitch, he also held various voluntary roles at different times across the decades, including captaining our 3rd XI, scoring for junior matches, scoring for senior matches – most notably our 2nd XI which he did with complete dedication for many years after he had retired from playing, he became their 12th man – and he took great pride in helping to encourage and develop junior players when they transitioned into our senior teams.  He was, as we say in our sport, an all-rounder – both on and off the cricket pitch.

Our Club Chairman said:

“I had known Ian since my arrival in St Anne’s in the 80’s. He was really welcoming at the club as was all the Buffham family. We shared many a pint and chat at the bar over the years. I have fond memories of his impromptu rendition of Delilah on occasion.

 

He was a stalwart of the cricket club over many years. Player, Captain, Scorer, fundraiser and committee member. His contribution to St Annes Cricket Club was immense and people like Ian can not be replaced and will never be forgotten. Our thoughts at this sad time are with Judith and Christopher and Stephen together with the rest of the family. Although I can’t be there on Thursday my thoughts will be with you all.”

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Judith, their sons Chris and Stephen, Ian’s sister and all of his family, friends and former team mates at this time.

Ian’s funeral will take place on:

• Thursday 5th February 2026
• 4:15pm
• At Lytham Crematorium
• Followed by a gathering for everyone to share their cherished memories of Ian at St Annes Cricket Club

All are welcome to attend. The family have requested family flowers only please, but you are most welcome to make a donation to Trinity Hospice in Ian’s name – thank you.