A WELL known Pembrokeshire cricket character in Dai Morris is to step away from the middle after more than 30 years as an umpire.

Dai took charge of numerous local league matches in Divisions One and Two, as well as five Harrison Allen Bowl finals, a Welsh Cup final at the Swalec Stadium between Ammanford and Sully, and an incredible 14 DR Morris Cup finals.

He also umpired Alec Colley and Ormond Youth Cup finals.

Furthermore, Dai umpired a Wales Under 19 match between Ireland at Pontarddulais.

This followed a great playing career in the county, and in 33 years with Cresselly, he played in 14 Bowl finals, winning 10 of them, and was man of the match twice.

He was also man of the match in a DR Morris Cup final.

Between 1950-80, he represented Pembrokeshire as an all rounder, and in 1955, played alongside England internationals Ken Higgs and Dusty Rhodes whilst doing national service.

Dai has said he will continue to help out with some junior matches, but has confirmed he will be retiring from umpiring senior cricket.

Pembroke County Cricket Club Chairman Paul Webb said Dai summed up what Pembrokeshire cricket was about: “Dai has given tremendous service to our game for more than 60 years as a player, administrator and an umpire.

“He has a feeling for the game and personally, has been brilliant support to me since I joined the County Executive.

"He's a true Pembrokeshire cricket man and we will miss him.”