Alf Gover, who died in October 2002 aged 93, was a firm friend of the Ramblers in the early days.
The Surrey and England fast-bowler had taken over the indoor cricket school at Wandsworth, South London - founded in 1928 by Herbert Strudwick, Andy Sandham and S.Bale, after the War. He, Sandham and Arthur Wellard developed the gas-lit 4 net facility into something of an attraction to local cricketers who enjoyed the evening practice sessions - and the bar afterwards.
Mike Gauntlett, Lionel & Tony Wood, Ronnie Gethen, Charlie Izzard and other Ramblers of the early '50s made a regular trip up the A3 during the winter months. Mike's sons, Michael and Hugh were also allowed to take the train to Clapham Junction and the bus to East Hill in the school holidays to be coached by the great man.
Alf and one of his two sons, David came on the very first Ramblers tour. Alf only played the one game- against Havant and shared the new ball with David. He took 7-34 in 16 overs. This included a second spell of 5.5 overs in which he took 3 wickets in 4 balls.