FOOTBALL and cricket fan, Derek Parrett, has died at the age of 82.

Born in Christchurch as one of 11 siblings to mother, Emily, and father, Walter, Derek James 'Buffer' Parrett attended Twynham School before leaving education at the age of 14.

He took an apprenticeship as a bricklayer with his father, which is a trade he continued until he retired at the age of 65, where he was based in Christchurch, including building bungalows in Mudeford.

Derek went on to welcome two daughters, Nicola and Julia, and a son, Gregory, who died six years ago, with the children's mother, Heather.

He stayed living in the town throughout his life and was a keen member of Christchurch Football Club, which he was a part of for 25 years, as well as Mudeford Cricket Club for the same period of time.

His daughter, Julia, said that her brother, Gregory, was also a cricket fan and at one point the father and son appeared in the same cricket team line-up after both gained a reputation for being excellent batsman and bowlers.

After retiring, Derek enjoyed long walks around Christchurch and he was very crafty including making greetings cards for his friends and family.

He also enjoyed spending time with his three grandchildren, Lisa, Laura and Francesca, and his five great grandchildren including Lily, Drew, Freya, Josh and Noah.

Derek died on Saturday, October 29 and his funeral service will take place at Bournemouth Crematorium on Monday, November 14 at 11am with donations going to the Alzheimer's Society.