The sporting community in Broughty Ferry, and in cricketing circles throughout Scotland has been shocked by the sudden death of Forfarshire cricketer Gordon Potts.

Gordon (39) who worked in business banking with Lloyds TSB Glasgow for the past six years was found dead in his home in Erskine by his brother Ian at the weekend.

A post mortem examination is to be held today to establish the exact cause of death, but it is thought he may have suddenly been taken ill at home last Thursday.

Born and raised in Broughty Ferry he attended Forthill Primary School and Grove Academy.

A naturally gifted sportsman, Gordon hit the record books as a 15-year old when he made his county debut against West Lothian in 1983 while still in the third year at Grove.

As one of Scotland’s most promising cricketers, he was once coached by the England legend Ted Dexter after being chosen from 1200 hopefuls in a national coaching initiative.

As one of only two Scots involved, the 18-year old Gordon scooped the TSB Young Club Cricketer of the Year for his age group at the end of that course in 1986.

An all rounder he took 300 wickets and scored 3440 runs at senior level.

He was also a keen footballer playing for Broughty United's under age teams from the age of 10 before joining Barnhill Amateurs for a season eventually becoming an important and popular member of Broughty United Amateurs.

Forfarshire Cricket Club president Dick Auchinleck who shared many a batting partnership with Gordon said his untimely death had left the club in mourning.

"He will be sadly missed by everyone here and in life. He was a very good player for us and very popular with everybody."

Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

This article originally appeared in the Dundee Courier 19 July 2007