Former Gloucestershire bowler and current Club President, David ‘Syd’ Lawrence, has been recognised for his outstanding services to cricket in the King’s Birthday Honours, receiving an MBE.
Lawrence made history as the first British-born Black cricketer to play for England. Last year, he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
This honour comes just one week before Gloucestershire Cricket hosts its Pink 4 Syd event during the Club’s Vitality Blast match against Hampshire Hawks on Friday 20 June, held in tribute to Syd.
Reflecting on the recognition, the Club President expressed his pride at being named in the King’s Birthday Honours list: “It is an incredibly proud moment to have been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours. It is not something that I ever thought would sit after my name, but I am absolutely delighted that it will do so for however long I am here and will be a part of my legacy when I am gone.
“As a proud Gloucester man who achieved his dream to play for England on the cricket field, it means a great deal to me and to my family who have supported me with all their love during some difficult times.
“I have always put my heart and soul into any challenge I have faced and that is how I have approached things since my diagnosis with Motor Neurone Disease. With awareness and funds for research we can make a positive difference for those who will need it in the future.”
Gloucestershire Cricket Chair Peter Matthews, said on behalf of the Club:“I am absolutely delighted that Syd has been recognised in this way.
“He has been a magnificent servant to Gloucestershire – truly one of the club’s all-time greats. Since his diagnosis with motor neurone disease, he has shown remarkable fortitude and strength.
“Everyone at Gloucestershire congratulates him hugely on this well-deserved award, and we’re proud that he continues to serve as our president.
“Next Friday, 20 June, we’re hosting a major fundraising event – our Pink 4 Syd evening. It would be a fitting tribute to Syd if we could sell out the ground and raise significant funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
“Please bring your friends and family, even if they’re not cricket fans, as we turn the Seat Unique Stadium pink in support of Syd and this vital cause.”
ECB Chair Richard Thompson said: “David (Syd) Lawrence’s honour is a tribute to his resilience, talent, and enduring impact on the sport. As the first British-born Black cricketer to play for England, he was a pioneer and it was tragic that his career was cut short by injury. David has since become a powerful voice for change, championing greater representation and opportunity within cricket, and he is inspiring many more people with his courage and resilience following his diagnosis with motor neurone disease.”
