Collin Fernando (30th Oct. 1940 - 7th Mch. 2001)

We record with sadness the sudden demise of Collin Fernando in early March 2001, the Treasurer of the Festival of Cricket. Collin was a well respected and well loved committee member of the Festival of Cricket, having represented his school St Sebastian's Moratuwa, unbroken for a number of years. In 1999, he was elected Honorary Treasurer and was re-elected the following year to have served two consecutive terms of office in that capacity. During his long tenure, he served with great acumen and distinction, thus earning the unreserved respect of all his peers. He also served as President of his school's Old Boys' Association for at least two terms and was largely influential in securing the admission of him school to the Festival of Cricket. Collin was inspired by cricket and lost no time in following and watching the game whenever possible. His keenness was such that at the time of his sad demise he was in Sri Lanka following the England/Sri Lanka series in Colombo. Collin was of a calm and gentlemanly disposition. He always found the time to help others and was therefore very selfless. His worthy contribution to his school's Old Boys' Association and the Festival of Cricket shall always be remembered with great affection and regard. He shall be sorely missed.

Parakrama Ranasinghe (15 Sept. 1941 - 21 Oct. 2002)

We record with sadness the passing of Parakrama Ranasinghe in October 2002, the legal advisor for the 'Festival of Cricket'. Popularly known as 'Para', he joined the FOC committee as one of the representatives for St Anthony's OBA in 1993 and was soon appointed as its legal adviser, the role he accepted as a voluntary undertaking which he continued diligently until his unfortunate demise. He was most generous with his time and provided an invaluable service to the FOC. His sense of humour helped the committee through several difficult times and his gentle and calm manner influenced the FOC to develop its true course and objectives. He was a well-liked well established committee member of the FOC.

Para was educated at St Anthony's College, Kandy where he excelled academically and in sport. He maintained his interest and concern for his School throughout his life and shared an active role in all activities of the Old Antonian's in the UK. He had an exemplary career as a teacher, lawyer, trade union leader, and a politician. In the UK he was a loyal and a popular member of the UK branch of the SLFP and served as their President until his death. Para's profound interest in the rights of his fellow men led to his fearless safeguarding of their rights and dignity right through his life. Furthermore, he was admired by everyone for his sincere, lovable and humble nature.

Para will be sadly missed by all who knew him as a loyal friend, a wise counsellor and a wonderfully caring father and husband.