Tributes from across the sporting and political landscape rolled in after the death of cricket umpire Dickie Bird, at the age of 92. He played cricket at Barnsley cricket club alongside lifelong friends Sir Michael Parkinson and Sir Geoffrey Boycott, who said in tribute that Bird was “loved by so many and became a legend”. View image in fullscreen Dickie Bird rings the bell before play in the England v New Zealand Test at Lord’s in May 2015. Dickie Bird didn’t just umpire the game – he owned it with heart, wit and class.” While former Australian cricketer Merv Hughes said Dickie was “one of the best” umpires “and a great bloke as well”. View image in fullscreen Dickie Bird at home with his awards in 2013.