Walk into any Cricket Club on a Saturday evening and you will probably hear those congregated reminiscing and telling stories of memorable moments, great players and thrilling victories.

You are less likely to hear anyone talk about those people who, for years, worked so tirelessly behind the scenes to make such memories possible.

When Iain and Evelyn Scott relocated from the big city lights of London to sleepy Northamptonshire, nobody could have foreseen the impact they would have on the local Cricket Club.

Their first residence was in Hackleton. They started a family, bearing two daughters – Moira and Helen and a son – William (now known to us all as Bill). In addition, Iain set about building one of the most respected legal practices in the town.

Notwithstanding their busy lives, it was at Horton House Cricket Club where much of their recreation time was spent. Under the autocracy of Doug Lucas, the Club was growing in stature and had a fine reputation for staging high-quality Cricket on a stunning ground, featuring a newly built Clubhouse, which we still enjoy to this day.

Iain had always been a keen sportsman, playing both football & cricket for most of his life. His claim to fame was to have played against the late, great, Richie Benaud. He quickly got involved in all aspects of the Club, with Evelyn always close by in support and helping behind the scenes.

When the Club joined the Northamptonshire County League in 1981, ‘Scotty’ as he became affectionately known, joined the likes of Jim Wolstenholme and others in starting a 3rd XI – arranging & playing in a dozen or more friendly fixtures each season. Scotty then took on the role of Fixture Secretary – organising a full schedule of 1st & 2nd XI Sunday fixtures, as well as the aforementioned 3rd XI fixtures and other midweek fixtures involving touring sides. It was his first entry to the Club’s committee. It certainly wouldn’t be his last.

By the early 1980’s, Scotty and his family had moved from Hackleton to number 8 The Drive, Horton. The Club was now flourishing in the County League. New players were attracted to the Club, the 1st XI and 2nd XI were renowned for their playing strength, there was a vibrant social scene and the Junior section was emerging as the best in the County. Taking on the role of Club Secretary was therefore a significant commitment. Despite his many family and professional obligations, Scotty accepted the role and performed it with distinction for more than a decade. His knowledge and understanding of local cricket kept everyone honest and grounded. He would serve under multiple Chairmen and was a constant source of wise counsel and support.

In 1986, Scotty and a group of others went to Devon for the annual cricket tour. With insufficient numbers to make up a full team, they played golf instead. And so was born the Horton House Golf Society, which has continued the annual tour tradition every year since. Scotty was an ever-present on the tour and always insisted on walking the course, never opting for a buggy. Although that may have had something to do with the standard of driving after the previous night’s festivities. He was never crowned Champion Golfer, but a proud moment came in 2008, when Bill won the championship, playing off the meagre handicap of 28.

In 2012, Scotty was elected Club President. Alongside Evelyn, they fulfilled the role supremely for nearly a decade and were the perfect figureheads. Members and guests alike were always given a warm welcome. Their most generous hospitality in hosting the annual President’s Day ensured this event was always a highlight of the Cricket & Social calendar.

The debt of gratitude owed to Iain & Evelyn for everything they have done for the Club over the past 50 years can never be repaid. The current generation of Members, and all future Members, can enjoy playing and social facilities which would simply not have been possible without their indefatigable efforts. The award of Honorary Life Membership is the very least that they both deserve.