IAN ( Rolo) ROWLANDS - UPDATED

Date: 4th May 2016

Obituary and Funeral Details

Many people have been saddened by the death of Ian 'Rolo' Rowlands on Monday 2nd May, aged 57.

Ian had a distinguished sporting career in both football with Connah's Quay Nomads and cricket with Northop Hall CC and Marchwiel CC. He is also one of the few players to represent both Flintshire and Denbighshire with distinction. In August 1986, he returned the best ever bowling figures by a Flintshire player of 7 for 16 versus Anglesey.

Ian was a very competitive sportsman who played the game hard on the field, but who enjoyed the post-match activity too! The perfect balance and one which made him a much liked and respected team-mate and opponent. It was never dull with Rolo around!

When Ian was a boy, it was extremely unusual for anyone who lived outside of the village to play for Northop Hall CC. So, the cricket club was where most of the young village boys went during the summer time to hone their cricketing skills; in Rolo's case, becoming a very skilful bowler and an able batsmen. His cricketing career covered four decades finishing in May 2007, and included over 600 games for Northop Hall, for whom he took nearly 800 wickets, and nearly 300 games during a very successful and happy 11 years at Marchwiel.

Those who had the pleasure of playing with Rolo will recall with pride and laughter his great ability to win, not just somebody who enjoyed winning, his commitment to the team and the fun he brought to Saturday afternoons at Smithy Lane and Marchwiel Hall. Those who played against him will, no doubt, remember his skilful off-spin, his determination and will to win, together with his great company in the bar later.

Fine player. Top man.

Our sincere condolences go to Lowri and Ian's brother David.

Northop Hall CC

Ian's funeral will be held at St Mary's Church, Northop Hall at 09:45 on Friday 13th May 2016 followed by private cremation (immediate family only). Everyone is invited to Northop Hall CC after the church service to meet up with friends and to celebrate Rolo's life.