TOUCHING tributes have been paid to former cricketer and "a real character" Gerard Houlton.

Gerard, who played cricket as an all-rounder for Lancashire in the 1960s, passed away aged 79 on Saturday, October 20.

Having grown up in Haresfinch and attended Holy Cross School, Gerard spent all of his life living in St Helens.

He leaves behind wife of 59 years, Ronnie; children Cathy, Chris and Clare; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

An obituary to him said he is "very sadly missed by all his family and friends".

A very active man, Gerard has been described as a "bit of a sporting superstar" in his younger days - having achieved prowess in cricket, football and rugby league

Gerard played cricket for the red Rose between 1961 and 1963 and appeared in 20 first-class matches, scoring 688 runs with a highest score of 86 and taking five catches.

As well as his cricketing exploits, Gerard was also a keen footballer and rugby player.

He played for the Holy Cross school football team and for St Helens schoolboys and he went on to play for the Everton 'B' team.

Gerard, who also worked as a joiner at St Helens Council, also played for the Saints 'A' rugby league team.

"He just seemed to know everybody and was very social and had lots of friends at Ruskin Drive who have fond memories of him," said daughter Cathy.

"He was a real character. He enjoyed life and liked going to the races.

"He loved the outdoors and loved going to Southport swimming baths and walking round St Helens and all the country lanes and farms..

"He was a very active man and enjoyed his garden."

  •  A funeral service will be held for Gerard on Friday (November 2) at St Mary's Lowe House Church. The service will begin at 10.30am and will be followed by interment at St Helens Cemetery.