Mr Jim Winter
A FORMER cricketer and one of the founders of Havenstreet Cricket Club has died, aged 86.
Jim Winter was born in Ventnor and lived in Godshill until he was four years old, before moving to Haven-street with his family.
Mr Winter went to Havenstreet School and, on his first day, met Harold Davis, who became his best friend. He left school in 1939 and worked as a gardener before joining Leppards Farm.
Jim met his wife, Muriel, at a Young Farmers’ social in Wootton and married in 1952. They had three children, Judy, Jimmy and Jean.
In 1955, Mr Winter gathered a few friends together for a cricket match against Ventnor — and Havenstreet Cricket Club was born.
Mr Winter joined the Rose Society and Forestry Commission, and later went on to start Vectis Tree Specialists.
He loved gardening and used to grow runner beans, tomatoes and cabbages. He was so proud of his collection he would take them with him when he visited Scotland each year.
At the age of 20, Mr Winter’s years of gardening and ploughing paid off when he was crowned junior champion at the IW Ploughing Match.
Mr and Mrs Winter had four grandchildren, Jacque-line, Mark, Tracy and David, and great grandchildren, Natalie and Reece, who were later joined by Evelyn Ruby.
Mr Winter did not retire until he was almost 80 and took part in Walk the Wight for many years. He also enjoyed keep fit sessions and playing basketball.
Mr Winter’s final years were spent at Northbrooke House Nursing Home, Havenstreet.
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