Tributes have been paid following the death of a well-known cricket player at the age of just 45. Jim Smith Hughes had been suffering from pancreatitis and died on Friday.
Mr Hughes, who represented Rhewl Cricket Club for a few seasons prior to the club's relocation to Bersham near Wrexham, has been described as "a great laugh" by those who knew him best. He was said to be a huge lover of the sport and will be sadly missed, North Wales Live reports.
Former team-mate Dyfan Parry said: "I’m in complete shock. Jim was one of the most genuine lads I’ve ever met. He will be sorely missed by everyone. He was a one-off, he loved cricket - he was really competitive but always fair."
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Bersham Cricket Club said in a post on their Facebook page: "Some incredibly sad news today. The Rhewl boys of Bersham are lost for words after hearing of the passing of Jim Smith Hughes. Always a great laugh, a lover of cricket and a true gentleman. He will be dearly missed but remembered fondly forever, cysga'n dawel Jimbo."
Another former team-mate, David Bell, had fond memories of Mr Hughes, having played with him for Rhewl Cricket Club. He said: "Jim was a great lad, he came to play for Rhewl when we were short. Just watching on the side, he hadn't played since school. He then became our wicket keeper. Fantastic lad.
"Lads at Rhewl CC had a laugh and a joke with Jim. Hi Di Hi was our catchphrase with Jim. He reminded us of Ted Bovis - he will be sadly missed. R.I.P Jim."
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