Death of Malcolm Hockin

We regret to report the sad news of the recent death of Malcolm Hockin, former Byfleet player, husband to Gill, father of current players Matthew, Simon and Roland and grandfather to colts Ewan and Lily.

When, in 1978, work commitments resulted in a change of scenery for Malcolm, Gill and their young family, they upped sticks from their base in Gosport and moved to Byfleet. A keen supporter of Portsmouth F.C., Gosport Borough F.C., Gosport C.C. and Hampshire C.C.C., Malcolm wasted no time in seeking out his local cricket club and made his first appearance for Byfleet in the closing days of the 1978 season. By 1980 not only had he played a substantial role in the building of the club’s new pavilion but he had also taken on the role of Sunday 2nd XI captain, as well as being a regular in the Saturday league side. This continued until the end of the 1983 season when his body persuaded him to relinquish the captaincy and for the next three years his appearances became much more sporadic. However, in 1987 a new lease of life and his deep love for the game saw him reclaim the Sunday 2nd XI leadership and he spent the next four seasons directing operations from first slip where, in 1987, his catching prowess earned him the 2nd XI fielding trophy. After the 1991 season he called time on his captaincy role and made his last few appearances on the field during the 1992 season.

His services to the club were recognised firstly in 1983 when he was awarded the prestigious Carafino Cup and then in 1984 when he was elected as a Vice President, a post he held until his recent death. In all he made 330 appearances on the field but his contribution went far beyond this, not least in the 2000+ appearances made so far by his three sons and the prospect of the Hockin name continuing on Byfleet teamsheets in the form of his grandchildren.

Our condolences go out to Gill and to all members of the wider family.

The funeral will be held at Woking Crematorium on Friday 20th May, 11.00am.

Family flowers only please although any donations to the chosen charity, “Alzheimers Research UK”, would be much appreciated. Donations can be made through the funeral directors Lodge Brothers, West Byfleet, either in person or through their website. If using the website click on the donation button and enter Malcolm Hockin’s name.