LYMINGTON have been saddened by the sudden death of talented South African all-rounder Peter Williams, 56, a member of their all-conquering Southern Cricket League championship-winning side of 1983.

He was found dead at his Durban home this week. It is understood he was suffering from depression and took his own life.

Williams, who made over 1,800 first-class runs for Eastern Province, was a lead player in Lymington’s title success 31 years ago.

A classy right-hand batsman and inswing bowler, he scored almost 500 runs as well as taking 27 wickets.

Former Hampshire left-hander Jon Hardy, who captained Lymo in 1983, was “devastated” by the news of Williams’ death, commenting: “He gave everything on the field, a good man to have in the trenches with you.

“He was an aggressive, front-foot batsman but a thoroughly nice guy, the life and soul of any party.”