It will be the beginning of a new era for Minster Lovell Cricket Club when they begin their OCA League season next month.

Long-standing chairman Dave Lewis, 66, has stood down after 30 years at the helm.

At the club’s annual meeting, Lewis reflected on the many years he has spent as chairman and a player at the west Oxfordshire club.

During his time in charge, Minster have grown from a small village club with just one side to one with five senior teams and a flourishing youth set-up.

His son, Ian, played for Minster for several years, before joining Shipton-under-Wychwood.

Lewis also oversaw the building of the club’s new pavilion, which opened in 1998.

The members gave Lewis, and his wife Lyn, a standing ovation for their time, devotion and efforts over the past 30 years, and both were elected honorary vice presidents.

The new chairman, Tim Gush, thanked Lewis for his hard work over the years.

“He will be a hard act to follow, and I feel very honoured to take over from him,” he said.

“Dave did a wonderful job for not only the club, but for the village.

“He’s been a big part of the club, and no doubt he will continue playing and continue to support the club, both as a player and a spectator.