Former Irish Cricket Union President Sir Michael Nicholson has died at the age of 90.

He was born in Ardmore in 1933 in the family home, now the Beechill Hotel.

Sir Michael became a barrister, going on to become a judge where he rose to become Lord Chief Justice.

At the Ardmore book launch, Dermot Ward, Sir Michael Nicholson, Ken McCormick, Billy Platt and Joe Doherty.

A keen cricketer, he was a batsman with Ardmore in the 1950s and became President of the Bleachgreen club in the early 60s, holding that office for over 60 years.

He was also a former President of the North West Cricket Union, and was ICU President in 1978.

"Sir Michael was always very interested in the fortunes of local cricket and especially Ardmore,' said current NW President Connie McAllister.

"I remember his pride at scoring a match winning half century for Ardmore in the mid-50s, so much so that he was still sat basking in the glory with his pads on long after the game ended. It clearly meant so much to him.

"He hosted a reception for the MCC and Ireland teams when they played at Eglinton, with Sir Conrad Hunte and Mike Veletta amond the attendees.

"The Nicholson family were very good landlords to many of the people of the parish and to this day are very highly regarded throughout the country.

"My condolences on behalf of the North West to the family circle."