WARM tributes have been paid to a sporting hero who grew up and developed his passion in Chipping Sodbury.

International cricket umpire Paul Reynolds, who began his sporting career at Chipping Sodbury Cricket Club, died recently aged 50 following an illness.

Paul was the son of the club's current president Clive, and his brothers Dave and Mark are also members of the club.

He is survived by his wife Jen, sons Iestyn, Rhys and Ieuan, father Clive, brothers Dave and Mark and their families.

Gazette Series: Tributes paid to Paul Reynolds who died recentlyPaul grew up in Sodbury and was part of successful youth teams in the late 1980s before moving to Dublin in 1995 where he joined Leinster Cricket Club.

It was in Ireland where Paul would become a respected official, becoming a member of the ICC International Umpires panel.

He would officiate in 36 international matches, including when Ireland faced England in 2019 and when South Africa played Ireland in Bristol.

Warm tributes have been paid to Paul from members of Chipping Sodbury Cricket Club plus from his colleagues in Ireland.

A Chipping Sodbury Cricket Club spokesperson said: "Paul emerged from a very successful youth team in the late 1980s, many members of this team have remained firm friends over the years and are still involved with the club.

"He committed himself to the club both on and off the field and made a telling contribution.

"Prior to South Africa - Ireland game, he was proud to bring his colleagues back to his roots in Chipping Sodbury to show them where his love of the game began.

"The club sends its deepest condolences to the Reynolds family.

"A great loss for family, friends and the game of cricket.

"As a mark of respect, Chipping Sodbury CC has lowered its flag to half-mast."

Chair of Cricket Ireland Brian MacNeice said:  "This is a truly sad day when we mourn the passing of such a beloved member of the Irish cricket family.

Gazette Series: Tribute to international umpire Paul Reynolds who died recently

"Paul was the consummate professional  an international umpire of the highest quality and a man who was willing to support many along the way.

"I know his umpiring colleagues will be hurting with the news of his passing but Paul has left an indelible legacy that will benefit many for years to come.

"He has shown that Irish umpires can operate at the highest levels of the international game and I have no doubt he would have taken immense pride in those that will follow in his footsteps at that level in the future.

"From a Leinster perspective, I knew Paul for many years and could only marvel at the volunteer work he did on the administrative, officiating and education side in the province.

"He was a man that rolled up the sleeves and put in enormous amounts of time to the benefit of others within the game.

"He took on several roles in Leinster cricket and each one he gave it total commitment, all done with a humbleness that was one of his defining characteristics.

"He also was central to ensuring the archives of Leinster cricket are available for all to see.

"In so many ways his legacy will endure well beyond his time with us.

"It may seem prescient now, but I am reminded of the tribute that was given to Paul back in February at the Irish Cricket Awards  a spontaneous standing ovation from those that were gathered as he walked to the stage to collect his Award.

"It was an occasion that will live long in the memories of those that were present.

"We have lost a great man too soon."