Essex County Cricket Club are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of respected sports reporter and journalist Paul Hiscock, who died on Sunday 14 June, aged 79.
A lifelong Essex supporter and Life Member, Paul attended his first Essex match in 1951 at the age of five and remained devoted to the Club throughout his life. For many years, he was a familiar and much-loved figure around the Essex Cricket scene, covering the Club both home and away and becoming a valued contributor across its official publications. Paul conducted interviews with players and management for the Club's YouTube channel and regularly wrote for the Club's website, matchday magazines and annual Yearbook.
Beyond his work with Essex Cricket, Paul was the Essex correspondent for Wisden Cricketers' Almanack and wrote extensively for The Cricket Paper and local newspapers. In 2010, he co-authored ‘60 Classic Essex Matches’. A member of the Cricket Writers' Club, Paul earned a reputation for his accuracy, warmth and deep knowledge of the game. In recent years, he also served as Chair of the Essex Cricket Society.
Away from cricket, Paul was a devoted Leyton Orient supporter and spent many years reporting on the O's. His writing reflected his affection for the club and its community, and he became well known among supporters across East London through his work on matchday programmes. He also covered speedway for the Lakeside Hammers and reported on ice hockey.
Paul will always be remembered as a much-loved figure within Essex Cricket for his passion for sport, his professionalism and his unwavering support of the Club. He leaves behind a body of work that captured countless moments in Essex Cricket history.
Dan Feist, Essex Cricket’s CEO, said: "Paul was a hugely respected journalist and a cherished member of the Essex Cricket family.
"His passion for the Club was evident to everyone who knew him. He dedicated much of his life to documenting the story of Essex Cricket with remarkable knowledge, integrity and warmth.
"Paul was a familiar face to players, staff, Members and supporters alike, and his presence around Chelmsford will be deeply missed.
"On behalf of everyone at Essex Cricket, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to Paul's wife, June, his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.
"His contribution to Essex Cricket will not be forgotten."
Due to illness, Paul had been unable to attend matches at Chelmsford for around a year but had hoped to be at the Club's upcoming match against Nottinghamshire. In Paul's memory, the Essex flag will fly at half-mast throughout all four-days of the upcoming match and a minute's applause will be held before the start of play on day one.
Everyone at Essex County Cricket Club sends their sincere condolences to Paul's wife, June, and to his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.
