Villagers pay tribute to local sportsman

TRIBUTES have flooded in for a popular sportsman and father-of-two who has died aged 44.

Evenwood’s Steven Dowson died after a long battle with ill health.

Known as “Dev” to many, Mr Dowson was born and bred in the village and attended Evenwood Primary School before going on to Staindrop Comprehensive.

He was a keen darts player and Sunday footballer playing for the Bay Horse, Evenwood Juniors in the Northern League and Cockfield for a spell.

But above all, he was known for his days at Evenwood Cricket Club – playing across three decades and rising through the ranks to the first XI where he earned a reputation as a good wicketkeeper

Club stalwart Billy Teesdale said his death had come as a shock and remembered him as a “great lad”.

“He was one of the best – always laughing and joking and a hell of a wicketkeeper,” said Mr Teesdale.

“He was just a nice bloke – he would play for anyone and his fingers, well, you haven’t seen anything like them in your life.

“But he got on with it and it did not bother him – I cannot speak more highly of the lad.”

Mr Dowson worked many jobs including at Wilson’s Foundry, in Bishop Auckland, at a car maker in Falkirk and on the narrow boats at Tindale Crescent.

He went on to work at CA Group Ltd in the village.

Ill health, abscesses and a twisted bowel made his later years tough but he fought back many times.

His mum, Pauline Dowson, paid tribute to his fighting spirit and his love for his two daughters.

She said: “A lot of people said they did not know how he coped with it.

“He lost a lot of weight and I think a lot of people did not think he’d get through it but he bounced back.

“He still went up to watch the cricket all the time with Emma and Faith.”

Not shy of the odd drink and a smoke, Mrs Dowson said her son lived life to the full. His partner, Carol Firby, met him behind the bar of the social club sparking a 15-year relationship.

“I was the barmaid and he was the punter,” she added.

“He would do anything for anybody.”

Ms Firby also revealed his culinary passions.

“He was always making soups in the kitchen and picking on my cooking,” she added.

His brother, Gary Dowson, added his memories.

“To me he was always talkative and happy – he liked going out and having a bit a craic,” he said.

Dozens of cards and messages of condolence have been sent to the family in the wake of Mr Dowson’s death.

A bereavement fund has also been launched at the Bay Horse Inn.

The family have thanked everyone for their support.