'He was respected, admired and loved'

SIR Geoffrey Boycott has paid tribute to his friend of 70 years, the 'respected, admired and loved' Dickie Bird.

- By ANDY SIMS

Renowned former umpire Bird, one of the most recognisable figures in cricket, has died aged 92.

England and Yorkshire batting great Boycott struck up an enduring friendship with Bird when they were playing for Barnsley Cricket Club in the 1950s.

The 84-year-old recalled how Bird used to insist on calling him 'Gerald, despite his protestations.

"I would say, 'my name's not Gerald, it's Geoffrey," said Boycott, writing in the Telegraph.

"It made no difference telling him because he would then say, 'OK, put the gloves on for me Gerald'

Boycott revealed he last saw Bird earlier this summer.

"We chatted at Scarborough and Headingley. Dickie was getting about, and appeared happy and in good health," he added.