Bill Tansell
Author: Paul Smith
Date: 31/07/2026
News has reached the West Midlands' cricketing world of the passing at the age of 76 of Bill Tansell after a long illness.
At various points from the BDPCL's restructure into an 'open' league in the late 1990's until 2017 Bill served on the Management Board on behalf of Worcester Norton Taverners, Old Elizabethans and Barnards Green.
He was also elected a Vice President in 2007 before going on to serve as President in 2012.
Paying tribute to Bill, Worcester CC (formerly Norton Taverners) wrote:
"Bill, together with his father Doug, helped establish the club at its Norton home in the mid-1980s. He went on to serve as Club Chairman from 1994 to 2004, a period of considerable success for the club on and off the field.
"Bill also served on the committee for many years and worked with several local leagues and cricket associations. He was a respected figure across West Midlands cricket.
"Bill was also known for the practical work that keeps a club running, from mowing the grounds to driving the tractor. His time, resources and sponsorship helped the club bring overseas players to Worcester over many years.
"Worcester Cricket Club would not be where it is today without Bill's endeavours. "
Barnards Green also noted Bill's involvement with the Worcester County League - who elected him a life member in 2018 - in addition to Herefordshire CCC, the Midlands Club Cricket Conference and the Worcester Evening League.
The club said: "Bill was a dear friend of Barnards Green Cricket Club and a towering figure in local cricket for longer than many can remember.
"His dedication to the Worcestershire County Cricket League was unwavering, and his tireless service benefited countless clubs, players and volunteers.
"Bill was a dear friend of Barnards Green Cricket Club and a towering figure in local cricket for longer than many can remember.
"Our thoughts are with Bill's family, friends and everyone whose lives he touched. He will be greatly missed, fondly remembered, and his contribution to local cricket will never be forgotten."
These thoughts are echoed by the current Management Board of the BDPCL..
Bill is shown holding the shield on the left of the attached photo (credit: Barnards Green CC)