President Richards new Queen’s Park patron

PRESIDENT George Maxwell Richards was made the new patron of Queen’s Park Cricket Club at a reception at the Queen’s Park Oval on Wednesday night. And in his maiden speech to the  Parkites, President Richards said: “Tonight I am very happy to be made the patron of such a venerable organisation like Queen’s Park Cricket Club. “I must say to my fellow members how much I appreciate this and I am looking forward to serving the club in the best possible way.” President Richards replaced former head of State Arthur NR Robinson who served as patron during his tenure as President of Trinidad and Tobago. Ex-President Robinson was at the function as was the country’s first President Sir Ellis Clarke. the country’s second President Noor Hassanali was unable to attend.

During his parting speech Robinson said: “As you must have noticed it took me quite a while to get to the wicket. I must say that sickness and age has caught up with me but not Sir Ellis. “I noticed how quickly he moved around when I arrived and he stills looks capable of getting to the wicket and taking a knock. “Anyhow let me tell you that Queen’s Park has made cricket in Trinidad and Tobago and the world over a better game by their existence. “They have done a lot for Trinidad and Tobago and continue to help in the development of its people.” President Richards addressed both former head of states and told the audience, “If I can perform half as well as my predecessors, then I would have done a fine job as patron of Queen’s Park. “These two gentlemen have been my inspiration for quite a long time and I am honoured to be here to take over the patronage from these distinguished men.” Queen’s Park also honoured two of their members who received national Independence Day awards. President of bpTT Robert Riley and former president of the Trinidad and Tobago Umpires Council Harry Mahabal received commemorative plaques.