JOHN Slack, a former crown court judge and captain of Bucks County Cricket Club, has died aged 81.

Known affectionately as ā€˜CJā€™, he was best known for presiding over Aylesbury Crown Court for many years. He died on May 6 after suffering a stroke.

His Honour John Slack lived most recently in Cuddington, but previously lived in Iver and played for Beaconsfield Cricket Club.

Born in Marylebone in 1930, he first came to public attention as a cricketer for Cambridge University in 1954, when he achieved the rare distinction of scoring a century on his first-class debut.

In 1967, he was appointed captain of Bucks and led them for three years. In 1969, his tactical acumen and right-handed batting helped them win the Minor Counties Championship.

But Slack turned down a contract with Middlesex to pursue a law career, working as a solicitor in London before becoming a Circuit Judge in 1974, which led to the nickname used by his friends and family.

Over the next 26 years he became known for his expertise in fraud trials and impatience with sloppy evidence or preparation by prosecuting lawyers or witnesses.

He was also passionate about recruiting and training magistrates, which was reflected in his appointment as a Deputy Lieutenant.

A talented all-round sportsman, he also played rugby for Middlesex and at the time of his death was a member of Beaconsfield Golf Club.

He leaves wife Patricia, sons Chris and Martin, and grandchildren Rosie and Josh. The funeral will be held at Chilterns Crematorium, Amersham, on Tuesday at 2.30pm.