Dean Wilson with Tim Wye: In Syd’s Voice: The extraordinary voice of Dave Lawrence

Journalist, sports media professional and co-author Dean Wilson joins us to celebrate the extraordinary life of Dave ‘Syd’ Lawrence, former England and Gloucestershire fast bowler and the first British-born Black man to play Test cricket for England.

From his remarkable cricket career to owning a much-loved Bristol nightclub and winning the West of England amateur bodybuilding title three times, Syd lived a life of determination, achievement and adventure.

Following his diagnosis with Motor Neurone Disease in 2024, Syd was determined to tell his story before he lost his voice. In Syd’s Voice, published shortly before his death in June 2025, brings together memories of his 61 years, alongside the final months of his life. Dean will share the story behind the book and the extraordinary man whose voice inspired it.