Howzat: Cricketing legend Geoffrey Boycott OBE signs a cricket bat for Nigel Smith, Managing Partner, Ellis Jones
Outspoken cricketing legend Geoffrey Boycott OBE hit a business audience for six when he appeared at AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium.
The former Yorkshire and England cricketer had clients and contacts of Dorset law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors in stitches as he regaled them with stories and anecdotes from a life spent in the spotlight.
Fellow cricketing legend Fred Trueman, umpire Dickie Bird and controversial football manager Brian Clough were just some of the people mentioned in a 90 minute address delivered entirely without notes.
Known for his forthright views, Geoffrey Boycott didn’t disappoint, at one stage describing a recent performance by England’s bowlers as ‘tripe’, adding to laughter his by now famous line: ‘My mum could have bowled better.’
Nigel Smith, Ellis Jones’ Managing Partner, said: “It was a real tour de force and very entertaining. In fact, I’ve never known an audience hang onto every word as they did with Geoffrey.
“I have had the privilege of working for Geoffrey so when we wanted a big name for our annual business event he was good enough to agree to take part. It’s been a big success.”
Earlier Mr Smith had likened Ellis Jones’ success in recent years to newly promoted Premier League side, AFC Bournemouth.
“At one point we had to take stock, restructure and invest in new players. I like to think we now sit at the top of the Premier League in Dorset and Hampshire for legal services,” said Mr Smith.
He added: “Like AFC Bournemouth, our success can be attributed to a loyal fan base represented by the clients and contacts at this event. To each and every one of you we say thank you.”
Geoffrey Boycott, who described Nigel Smith as ‘my friend’, said the reception from the 240-strong Dorset audience had been excellent.
He added: “I was very pleased at how many people really love cricket and took great interest in it.
“Nigel Smith, my friend, invited me. It was nice to come down just before the one day international at Southampton.”
