Lancashire have announced the death of chairman David Hodgkiss, aged 71, after contracting coronavirus.
Hodgkiss had been on the board at Emirates Old Trafford for 22 years, and had underlying health issues.
He took over as chairman of the club in April 2017 from Michael Cairns and has played a key role in the redevelopment of the world famous ground over the last 10 years.
“Further to the announcement from his family, it is with great sadness that Lancashire Cricket announces the passing of its Chairman, David Hodgkiss OBE,” read a club statement on Monday morning.
“David served the club with distinction over many years including holding the offices of treasurer, vice-chairman and latterly chairman.
“He was much loved by everyone at Lancashire Cricket Club and respected throughout the cricketing world.
“Our sincere condolences and thoughts and prayers are with his family.
"A further statement will be released in due course but at this time we ask that everybody respects the family’s privacy.”
Hodgkiss, who was also chief executive of steel fabrication company the William Hare Group, was awarded the OBE for services to manufacturing and exporting.
At the time of his appointment as chairman, Hodgkiss said: “I am honoured to be appointed chairman of Lancashire County Cricket Club.
“It is a sporting institution that is at the heart of the cricket landscape, as well as the north west region, and it is renowned around the world for its history, legacy and achievements both on and off the pitch.”
Lancashire chief executive Daniel Gidney paid his respect, posting on Twitter: “I am absolutely devastated to lose my great friend. RIP David.”
One of the first people to pay their respects was former Lancashire player Luke Sutton who said: “Such sad news. David was a really lovely man who loved Lancashire cricket.”
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