John Curtis, Esteemed Worcestershire Cricket Chronicler, Passes Away at 68

John Curtis, Longtime Chronicler of Worcestershire Cricket, Dies Aged 68

Veteran sports journalist and beloved voice of Worcestershire County Cricket Club, John Curtis, has passed away at the age of 68 following a brief illness.

Affectionately known as “JC,” Curtis’s association with Worcestershire began in the 1970s when, as a 14-year-old, he served as a copy boy—delivering match reports from the ground to the Worcester Evening News office. He was also involved in operating the old scoreboard at the Diglis End and was the club’s first-ever Junior Pears member.

Curtis began his journalism career at the Evening News and later collaborated with his longtime colleague Mike Beddow from 1989 onwards, producing matchday programmes for top football clubs including Aston Villa, Manchester City, Everton, and Leeds United.

In 1994, his coverage of Brian Lara’s historic 501* for Warwickshire earned him a permanent position at the Press Association, where he covered England football extensively, including the 1998 FIFA World Cup.

Despite his wide-ranging journalism career, Curtis's heart always remained with Worcestershire. He became a fixture at New Road, not just as a reporter for the club’s website and ESPNcricinfo via the ECB Reporters Network, but also as a warm and welcoming presence in the press box.

In a heartfelt tribute, Worcestershire CCC wrote:
“Whether fixing the coffee machine in the press box, swapping music stories, or discussing the finer points of a cover drive, John created an environment filled with camaraderie, humour, and journalistic passion. His enthusiasm, warmth, and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone he met.”

Curtis’s passing comes just as the new county season is about to begin, with Worcestershire set to face Somerset at Taunton. Fittingly, his legacy was honoured last September when the New Road press box was renamed “The Curtis, Oldnall and Beddow Press Lounge,” recognising the contributions of Curtis, Chris Oldnall, and Mike Beddow—three journalists whose combined service to the club spanned over 150 years.

Beyond reporting, Curtis served as vice-chair of the Worcestershire Cricket Society and secretary of the Worcestershire Supporters’ Association. His dedication earned him the David Exall Award for outstanding service to the club, and he was also a prolific compiler of members' newsletters.

Worcestershire CEO Ashley Giles paid tribute, saying:
“John was the heartbeat of the press box and a treasured member of the Worcestershire family. His deep passion for the club was matched by his humility, kindness, and tireless dedication to telling our story with care and honesty. From the season’s first delivery to the final word of a match report, John brought New Road to life. His presence, his voice, and his friendship will be profoundly missed.”

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