ASHLEY Barnes, one of the finest I’Anson bowlers in recent years, died last week after a short illness. He was 50.

He spent a relatively short time in I’Anson cricket, but made a big impression when playing for first for Badshot Lea and then Tilford.

He features twice in the records compiled for the I’Anson’s centenary in 2001. In 1994, playing for Badshot Lea, he took 8 for 45 in a Division Two match against Grayshott II.

Later, in 2001, he made a sensational debut for Tilford. Called up when they were short for a Division One game at Fernhurst on September 1, Barnes wreaked havoc on a grassy wicket and took 9 for 24.

Ashley Barnes, whose younger brother, Matt, played alongside him for both clubs, tended to take wickets in clusters, more than once on debut.

When still a student, he played a few games for Farnham and on his first appearance for the third XI, watched by his father, Michael, he cleaned up with all ten wickets.

Ashley was distinctly quick in his younger days, but a knee injury lessened his pace and, according to Matt, caused him to learn his craft better.

A right-arm seamer, Ashley became remarkably consistent and had a rare delivery in his locker – an inswinger that moved away off the seam.

This delivery, often perfectly pitched, accounted for many an I’Anson batsman. Of the many messages of condolence received by Matt from cricketing friends and opponents, several remarked on that combination of swing and seam that caused them so much trouble.

The Barnes brothers grew up in Badshot Lea, within a stone’s throw of the cricket ground, and played for the club’s youth teams alongside the Bicknells, Martin and Darren, later to play for Surrey and England.

After his brief spell at Farnham, Ashley played for Chalfont St Peter, while Matt went to Cranleigh. Later, in the early 1990s, both were back playing for their home village.

In 1994, they helped Badshot Lea win promotion to Division One and, in 1996, the club had its best ever season, finishing third in the top division behind Frensham and Grayshott.

Matt Barnes, a hard-hitting batsman who shattered records with 206 not out against The Bourne in 1995, later joined Tilford, while Ashley became an occasional cricketer to enable him to endulge his other sporting passion – golf.

His 9 for 24 at Fernhurst marked his return to the I’Anson and although he limited his appearances, usually turning out when Tilford were short, he formed a potent opening attack with Nigel Martyn.

He had the knack – perhaps irritating to other bowlers – of playing after a lengthy absence, without any net practice, and immediately dropping the ball on the spot. He thus benefited from the coaching of his father who had got him to aim at a handkerchief placed on a length.

He was no slouch with the bat either, although his strokes – again according to Matt – were limited to a cover-drive and forward defensive.

Ashley was liked and respected by team-mates and opponents alike.

One of his former victims remarked: “Aside from his exploits on the field, he was one of nature’s real gentleman, the likes of which is seen all too rarely in life these days. He will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him and/or being castled by him – at least twice for me!”

Ashley Barnes, a solicitor, lived near the first tee at Guildford Golf Club in Merrow, where he was a member.

An MCC member, he was a regular spectator at Lord’s.

His late father was a former president of Badshot Lea CC and the brothers carried on the tradition of playing in the annual president’s match.

Ashley Barnes leaves his wife, Geraldine, children Nathan and Tamsin, his mother Maureen, brother Matt and sister Emma. The funeral took place this week. In accordance with Ashley’s wishes, his ashes will be scattered near the first tee at Guildford Golf Club.