John Curtis, Beloved Worcestershire Cricket Journalist, Dies
Worcestershire County Cricket Club is deeply saddened to announce the passing of John Curtis, a veteran sports journalist and a lifelong devotee of the club. Curtis, affectionately known as “JC,” died at the age of 68 following a short illness. His death marks a significant loss for the club and the wider sporting community.
A Lifelong Association with Worcestershire
Curtis’s journey with Worcestershire County Cricket Club began remarkably early, at the age of 14 in the 1970s. He initially served as a ‘copy boy’, diligently running reports from his predecessor, Jack Godfrey, from the ground back to the Worcester Evening News office on Hylton Road. His dedication extended beyond simple reportage; he also assisted with operating the old scoreboard at the Diglis End and became the very first Junior Pearls member – a testament to his early commitment to the club.
From Local Reporting to National Recognition
After honing his skills at the Evening News, Curtis partnered with his long-term colleague, Mike Beddow, in 1989. Together, they compiled match programmes for prominent football clubs including Aston Villa, Manchester City, Everton, and Leeds United. His career reached a national spotlight in 1994 when his coverage of Brian Lara's momentous 501 not out for Warwickshire secured him a permanent position with the Press Association. During his tenure with the Press Association, he predominantly covered England football matches both domestically and internationally, including the pivotal 1998 World Cup.
A Heart Always Belonging to Worcestershire
Despite his national recognition, Curtis’s heart remained inextricably linked to Worcestershire. He became a central and familiar figure in the New Road press box, consistently extending a warm welcome to visiting journalists and diligently filing reports for the club website, as well as ESPNcricinfo through the ECB Reporters Network. His contributions were more than just professional; he fostered a sense of camaraderie and enjoyment within the press box.
“Whether fixing the press box coffee machine, trading stories about music, or debating the merits of a cover drive, John created an atmosphere that was as much about friendship and laughter as it was about journalism. His energy, enthusiasm, and generous spirit made him impossible to forget.” – Worcestershire County Cricket Club Tribute
A Legacy of Service and Recognition
John’s dedication to Worcestershire extended beyond his journalistic work. He actively served as:
- Vice-chair of the Worcestershire Cricket Society
- Secretary of the Worcestershire Supporters' Association
- Compiler of countless members' newsletters
His substantial contribution to the club was formally acknowledged with the David Exall Award for outstanding service. Furthermore, last September, ahead of what would be his final match at New Road, the press box was proudly renamed 'The Curtis, Oldnall and Beddow Press Lounge,' honoring Curtis, Chris Oldnall (former club correspondent), and Mike Beddow – individuals whose combined involvement spanned an impressive 150 years.
Tributes and Upcoming Fixture
Ashley Giles, Worcestershire’s chief executive, expressed profound sadness at Curtis’s passing. “John was the heartbeat of the press box and a treasured part of the Worcestershire family,” Giles stated. “His passion for the club was matched only by his kindness, humility, and tireless commitment to telling our story with care and authenticity.”
Worcestershire is set to play their opening fixture against Somerset at Taunton on the eve of the new county season, a poignant moment as the club mourns the loss of a truly dedicated and beloved figure.