It is with great sadness that we have learnt about the untimely death of one of WsMCC’s best batsman in recent times. Thank you to Simon Turner for his words about Paul.

Paul Bail known as Pacman (Paul Andrew Clayden) collapsed whilst playing golf on Saturday 24th February at the age of 58. Pacman was an immensely talented, attacking batsman who had a full range of shots and would regularly hit spectacular 6's over extra cover, he also turned his arm over when required, bowling some very useful spells of off spin.

Born in Weston Super Mare, Pacman went to Millfield School and came through the Somerset ranks making his County 1st XI debut in 1985, undoubtedly his Somerset high point was scoring 78 not out against Kent. He played 7 first class games for Somerset and ended up with an average of 22.90. He also played first class cricket at Cambridge University and won Blues in both cricket and football, achieving a rare double of playing both at Lord's and Wembley Stadium. The highlight of his cricket at Cambridge was scoring 174 in the 1986 Varsity Match at Lord's. In all, Pacman played 29 first-class games in which he scored over 1000 runs.

Pacman had 2 spells at Weston the first of which was from 1986 until 1989. Unfortunately for the club he moved to Richmond to pursue his very successful career in finance. He played for Richmond during the 90’s and scored significant runs for both their firsts and latterly their seconds. PACMAN then re-joined WsMCC in 2001 for a few seasons travelling from Richmond each weekend to play alongside his brother Steve (aka Sprog) who was also a very strong batsman and captained the side in 2003.

Pacman hit several large scores for the club over the years but his double century against Optimists in the Sunday 60 over competition was undoubtedly the pinnacle. His Father, John, was also a very active member and served time as a committee member.

Above all Paul was a lovely guy and respected both on and off the field. Our deepest sympathies go out to his wife Amanda and his daughter Ella and to Sprog and his family.

He will be deeply missed by all of us who had the pleasure of playing cricket with him and knowing him.