Victoria Park Community Cricket League

Bert Vandermark - Tributes & photos

Bert at home in 2004 / Photo: Tim Castle

Bert Vandermark, the president of the league, sadly died on 14 February 2021. Our thoughts are with his family. Bert was for many years a constant presence at Victoria Park on cricket evenings, offering advice to players and encouraging all to play in the spirit of the game. In the league's early days, Bert played for Finsbury Park CC. In more recent years, ill-health forced Bert to reduce his appearances at the park, but could still often be seen riding his mobility scooter around the pitches.

"Bert was a legend. He loved to give advice, not to show off his knowledge of the game, but to help others enjoy their cricket more. He was ever-present at the Park almost every evening when there was a game, or at nets when there wasn't."- Gary Horsman, VPCCL Secretary

"An absolute legend. Got to know him when I first started playing at VPCCL back in 2010. Bert was always so supportive and full of encouragement for us all. An ambassador for cricket. Will be greatly missed." - Firoz Husain

"Bert was in Vicky Park every weekend back in the 1990s and noughties. He actually introduced me to the VPCCL way back in 1999. In the summer he was there in the nets encouraging everyone to join in. A great friend and beautiful human being and great asset to the community and Victoria Park League. He will be dearly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and children." - Saj Rehman

"I got to know Bert in the last few years, having followed the VPCCL for a decade as a spectator. I'll never forget his charm and enthusiasm for everything - he shared some wonderful photos and even bought me a bottle of whisky two years back. It was always a pleasure chatting to him about the league as well as East London as a whole and he will be sorely missed. My sincere condolences to Rita, his children, grandchildren and friends." - George Watson

"Our condolences. Bert is a legend, and will always be held close to our heart." - London Braves CC

Bert in his earlier years at Victoria Park / Photos: Courtesy Bert's family

Bert on his bike at Victoria Park in 2008 / Photo: Philip Barrass

Bert and Rita Vandermark at the President's Match, April 23, 2018 / Photo: Saj Rehman

Bert with the League Champions Millwall in August 2018  / Photo: George Watson

Bert at Victoria Park in August 2020 / Photo: George Watson