Long-time Cup Match historian Tommy Aitchison has been honoured for his ?diligent? service keeping track of the classic?s records on an annual basis for well over half a century.

St. George?s Cricket Club president Neil Paynter and club manager Steven Burgess arrived at Aitchison?s Pembroke home last Saturday to present the veteran statistician with various awards, including a colourful commemorative portrait depicting the 100th anniversary of Cup Match.

?Words cannot adequately express our gratitude,? said Paynter. ?St. George?s Cricket Club values the contribution made by Aitchison over the years and it is only through his efforts that Cup Match?s rich and important history is forever preserved.

?The management of St. George?s Cricket Club is cognizant of the significance of these records and we will do our best to ensure they remain updated. And we wish to take this opportunity to thank Aitchison for being the keeper of 102 years of Cup Match records and wish him well in all future endeavours.?

Aitchison, a former Sports Editor of the , will bid the Island farewell later this year as he is about to take up residence in the US, leaving behind a legacy as one of the Island?s most dedicated cricket statisticians.

?I certainly appreciate their (St. George?s Cricket Club) appreciation. It was a very nice gesture,? said Aitchison, surprisingly short for words.

During a long lasting love-affair with the game of cricket, which continues to this present day, Aitchison had the distinction of corresponding with legendary Australian Test batsman Sir Donald Bradman.

Though Aitchison and the late Bradman would correspond for 15 years, the long-time Cup Match historian never got the opportunity to meet the Aussie in person.