A FLINTSHIRE cricket club "legend" celebrated his 90th birthday in the best possible way.

George Groves is Northop Hall Cricket Club president and has been involved with the club for 80 years. 

Recently, as the second eleven played a fixture at the club's ground on Smithy Lane - George was treated to a traditional cricket tea to celebrate his landmark birthday.

He started playing cricket for the club aged 10 through to an adult, before ground keeping and running the bar for many years.

George said: "The first thing I remember was taking the (wicket) roller in 1952 from the club to the field behind The Top Monkey pub to where I now live and in 1969 I started running the bar. 

"I started cutting the outfield after running the bar for 30 years and started doing the square. I’ve enjoyed every moment being involved with the club for 80 years."

The club's chairman, Rhys Hellen, said: "A true club legend who has given service to the club for 80 years, and still loves sitting on the mowers and preparing top wickets."

Sarah Edwards, club committee member, added: "He really is a legend still sits on the committee and works on the grounds.

"He has given many years, and much love to the club, he is so well known and respected here."