Friends and family of a popular cricket club vice chairman who died from heart problems hope to set up a yearly match to keep his memory alive.

The inaugural Brian Thacker Memorial Match at Overstrand Cricket Club, on Overstrand High Street, for the British Heart Foundation will be happening this Saturday at 1pm.

Retired self-employed builder Mr Thacker, from Elsden Close, Holt, died aged 71 in his sleep at home on June 13 this year.

Mr Thacker, who grew up in Holt, had been involved with Overstrand Cricket Club since 1993.

The father and grandfather of two was also involved with Holt United Football Club for more than 40 years.

As well as that, he was a youth club leader at a former Holt youth club on Jubilee Road and Sgt in the town's army cadets.

In 1994 he received the Torch Trophy from the Duke of Gloucester in London in recognition for his effort, dedication and voluntary service in promoting sport.

Mr Thacker, known as Rue in Holt, had a heart attack 15 years ago, which forced him to give up work.

His daughter Lesley Yarham, 42, from Queen's Road, Holt, said: 'He was always busy. He was a Holt person through and through. He could turn his hand to anything. He was a very kind person and was well known in Holt. If you needed anything he would be there at the drop of a hat.'

She was overwhelmed by the idea of the memorial cricket match, between current players and people selected by chairman Richard West.

Mrs Yarham's sons Billy and Tom Yarham, 17 and 15, and husband Neil, 42, will play in the chairman's team.

Mr Thacker became involved at Overstrand when Mr Yarham played for the club.

David Jackson, Overstrand club captain, said: 'I want to try and keep Brian's memory alive. I was devastated when I heard the news that he died. It is a big loss.'

Prizes will be auctioned off in a raffle and auction and it is hoped the tournament will become an annual event.

Are you holding a memorial sports match in north Norfolk? Email sophie.wyllie@archant.co.uk