Dudley Eckworth, a former umpire and esteemed club member, was a respected figure in cricket and an ex-merchant navy master. Although he never played for Hoddesdon he was a passionate supporter of the club and will always be remembered for his love of the game and for being a kind and decent club man who always had time to chat to the junior members.

Born in Hertford on May 16, 1937, Dudley spent most of his life in Hoddesdon and Broxbourne. He attended Hertford Grammar School, excelling in rugby and cricket, before joining HMS Conway, Naval Training School, in 1953/54. After his training, he joined the Merchant Navy as a deck cadet with Blue Star Line, eventually rising to the rank of Captain in 1975.

After retiring, Dudley became a cricket umpire, a role that he cherished. He toured extensively with the 'Forty Club,' umpiring worldwide, and served as president of the Hertfordshire Association of Cricket Umpires, ultimately becoming a life member.

In 2015, Dudley moved near Hoddesdon Cricket Club, where he was an active member and supporter, umpiring for many years. He was often seen post-game, enjoying a drink with his good friend and fellow umpire, Elmer Elliott. The ship's bell he donated to the club remains mounted on the clubhouse wall and is rung to signal the start of a match.

Following a dementia diagnosis in January 2020, Dudley relocated to a specialist care home in Norfolk to be closer to family before sadly passing away in April 2023

His memorial bench is situated near 'Dudley's Gate,' his usual entry point to the ground from his home across the road from the club.