CRAFTSMAN and all-round sportsman Jim Rowan, one of four St Ives cricketing brothers, has died, aged 90. Born in Northern Ireland in February 1917, James Thompson Rowan moved as a child in the early 1920s with his family to Broughton, where he is thought

CRAFTSMAN and all-round sportsman Jim Rowan, one of four St Ives cricketing brothers, has died, aged 90.

Born in Northern Ireland in February 1917, James Thompson Rowan moved as a child in the early 1920s with his family to Broughton, where he is thought to have been one of the founding members of the village cricket club, playing on a square mowed from a farmer's field.

After serving in the RAF during World War II, he returned to join his brothers at St Ives Cricket Club and to resume his profession as a carpenter, wheelwright and coach builder. He was in business in Topham's Yard, East Street, with his late brother Joe, who died about 20 years ago.

He was later employed by Charringtons in Station Road, building livestock vehicles, coal lorries, oil tankers and other commercial vehicles, and had been retired for 25 years. He lived in Pig Lane, having moved from St Audrey's Lane.

A fine batsman, he was captain when St Ives CC won the Smith Barry Senior Cup in 1949. He was made an honorary life member of the club three years ago.

He was also an accomplished golfer, bowls player and snooker player.

Jim had been in poor health for some time and his wife of over 50 years, Jean, died last year.

Jim Rowan's funeral will take place on Friday at 1pm at the East Chapel at Cambridge Crematorium.