Keith was born into a sporting family in Bearsted. Growing up in a house with direct access onto the Green, it was inevitable that this was where he would enjoy many happy times.
It was football where Keith would first appear, playing for the village team. His father Dick was involved in the reformation of the club after the war, with three sons and a grandson all playing for the club. In season 1961/62 v Kreemy Works it was reported “A young well balanced side, with half backs Fremlin, Filmer and Plant breaking up attacks and providing their forwards with such good service that there should have been more goals.” The Bearsted FC team photo was for season 1965/66.
In the summer it was cricket, but despite the odd game, it was not until 1983 that Keith joined Bearsted on a regular basis, previously playing against the club for both Rumwood and Thurnham. In a low scoring match in 1961 Thurnham totaled 57 with Keith scoring 23, in reply to Bearsted’s 101.
Keith was a key member of the Bearsted 2nd XI until 1994, during which time they won their League on two occasions. His highest score was against Hollingbourne in 1985 and his career statics were:
In 152 No 9 R 3189 Hs 73 Av 22.4
His cricket was made even more enjoyable by playing with his brother Mick and son Chris, and they are all shown in the 1993 team photo.
His sporting involvement did not stop however, as he regularly played golf as a member at Bearsted. During the cricket season, together with a few “regulars”, he was a spectator at matches at their favourite spot on the Green, taking pleasure in watching Chris.
He will be missed.