Carson Rose, once famously described by the late David Holmes as Instonians royalty, has died at the age of 90.

A legend of the club, along with his brother Dixon, who pre-deceased him four years ago, was a member of the Instonians side which won the Challenge Cup in 1964. Little did they know then it would be another 45 years before the Cup would be back in the clubhouse.

Carson was unlucky to be at his best as a wicket-keeper at the same time as Ossie Colhoun, so he was denied an international cap. 

After his playing days were over, he was a regular supporter when Instonians moved to Shaw's Bridge, invariably taking up the same seat to the right of the clubhouse.
He wasn't just a spectator though,  he spent a considerable time preparing the pitches and generally helping around the ground. 

Poignantly, he recorded a message on his 90th birthday, in the company of his inseparable wife, Yvonne, and son Andrew, saying he was looking forward to the cricket season. 

Unfortunately he won't see it but he will be never be forgotten at Instonians. 

Paying tribute, club president Norman Shannon said: "Truly deadful news. He was a wonderful person and and a fantastic supporter of the cricket club. Carson and Yvonne were always together, regulars at Shaw's for all the years I've been there. 

"Our thoughts are with Yvonne, Andrew and the  wider circle at this time. He had a wonderful innings. He will be much missed at Instonians and beyond. RIP Carson."