ONE of Somerset’s most generous benefactors Sir Christopher Ondaatje has passed away at the age of 93.

Born in Sri Lanka on February 22, 1933, Sir Christopher started his association with the west country when he was sent to Blundell’s School at Tiverton , where he excelled at cricket and remained until 1951.

After emigrating to Canada in 1956 he enjoyed a successful business career as well as representing the country in the bobsled at the 1964 Winter Olympics.

He sold his businesses and in 1988 returned to England, purchased a house in North Devon and embarked on several journeys of exploration to Central Africa as well as becoming a best selling author and philanthropist.

Sir Christopher was a generous supporter of Blundell’s School and among other things funded Ondaatje Hall as well as supporting a cricket scholarship at the school.

He supported nearby Lynton and Lynmouth Cricket Club and after linking up with another former OB Ted Crowe became involved with Somerset CCC who, at the time, were looking to build an indoor school.

Sir Christopher generously donated £200k towards the new pavilion and the Centre of Excellence on the eastern side of the ground, which is named in his honour.

The Ondaatje Pavilion, which also contains the Old Blundellian’s Box, was officially opened in 1995.

For several years at the start of the 21st century Sir Christopher served as Patron of SCCC.

He was made a Commander of the British Empire, and awarded a Knighthood in the Queen’s Birthday Honour’s list in June 2003 for services to museums, galleries and societies.

Richard Parsons, chairman of Somerset between 1988 and 2002, said: “Sir Christopher was the most generous benefactor we’ve had in a very long time. “He was a gentleman and extremely kind to the club which was appreciated by everybody.”