The other week I took my own advice and headed for Lords to see Gloucestershire play Middlesex.

Perhaps it was our county captain Chris Dent who made the decision for me. He spoke in this newspaper of how proud he would be leading our team, his team, through the Long Room and on to the field.

His sense of place and sense of history shone through. Supporting him and the team was a duty.

After leaving my Hackney headship I worked at Lords Cricket Ground.

I had the best job in the world. I was employed to talk about this historic ground, giving tours, speaking at functions and being the museum information man.

It was the latter task that was extra-special.

My duties were simple. Be in place before the gates opened and circulate in the museum, being prepared to answer any questions.

I was to remain there until play had started, returning at lunchtime. This meant I could slip into the pavilion and watch the cricket.

In the afternoon I could watch the cricket, only being on duty during the tea interval. This was how I spent all test match days.

My years at the MCC saw huge changes in the attitude and image of the club, the biggest being the opening of membership to women.

The appointment of Roger Knight as secretary was key.

On the first day he called all the staff into the Long Room. He said little but what he said meant so much: 

“This club has an unfortunate reputation for saying 'no'. Now we are going to try and say 'yes'.”

His message was clear. In partnership with presidents such as Tim Rice and Tony Lewis so much was achieved.

Working there I was often sub-contracted to a company named ‘Red Letter Days’ offering people personal treats.

A day at Lords was advertised with Mike Gatting. I was his support.

Mike can best be described as burly and was one of the first people I saw there.

My ribs could be cracked! The former captain of Middlesex and England gave me such a huge hug.

Fortunately, I recovered in time to enjoy a committee room lunch.

In the interests of accuracy the menu best be mentioned. Tomato and basil soup, lamb done two ways, apple crumble and a marvellous English cheese board. Unlimited wine and, of course, coffee.

Some cricket was watched but a day at Lords always entails so much more.

I must not forget there was afternoon tea as well.