Description: George Parr was born at Radcliffe-on-Trent on 22 May 1826, played his first game for Nottinghamshire at the age of 19 and became the leading batsman of his day, topping the national averages five times and captaining Notts. from 1856 to 1870. Playing the first-class game for over a quarter of a century, he was famous for his leg-side hitting, whistling the ball through what became known as George Parr's Tree. When George died on 23 June 1891 and was buried at Radcliffe-on-Trent, a branch of this elm was placed on his grave. George was a big man and a brilliant fielder, renowned for the accuracy and power of his returns to the wicket. Once at Lord's he won £5 from Sir Frederick Bathurst for throwing a cricket ball 108 yards and 2 feet. In 1859 he became the first Notts. batsman to score a century and at the end of the season led the first All-England team to North America. Also leading an All-England team to Australia and New Zealand in 1863-64, he returned undefeated. Many stories were told of his brusqueness and ironic wit. This was his advice to young cricketers: 'When you play in a match, be sure not to forget to pay a little attention to the umpire. First of all inquire after his health, then say what a fine player his father was, and, finally present him with a brace of birds or rabbits. This will give you confidence, and you will probably do well.' (information from Bygone Cricket website)