The BDPCL will in 2027 be without one of its most respected and familiar faces following the retirement from league umpiring of David Gower.

The former Bromsgrove batter received a guard of honour from Barnards Green and Moseley as he left the field for the final time after recovering from knee surgery to take his curtain call.

Gower made his Birmingham League debut in 2008 and during a 19-year league career has taken charge of around 300 matches.

He was awarded the prestigious BDPCL Umpire-of-the-Year award in 2020 during a decade-long spell on the National Counties panel.

The Worcestershire ACO member will continue to contribute to umpire development in the BDPCL as a coach with particular focus on the Reserve List.

This builds on his substantial experience as Midlands Umpires Development Officer - a role he has occupied for over 15 years - and his ongoing development of National Panel Umpires.