Dellmar signs a copy of his book for James Samuels. - photos by Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

Daviot Kelly, Staff Reporter

He's seen seven cricket world cups through his lenses; sat at the boundaries and watched many a test match of his beloved West Indies. And now, some of his best shots are in one place for all to see.

Headley 'Dellmar' Samuels launched his book Cricket Spectacular, A Pictorial Review 1979-2003 at the Red Stripe Vibes Club, on Spanish Town Road. The venue was perfect for the occasion as the regular decor is a sports lovers paradise with all the memorabilia from various sporting disciplines. An exhibition of some of the photos added to the 'sporty' feel.

Newton Jacks, past treasurer of the Jamaica Cricket Association said the idea for the book came from The Gleaner's Flashback series which showed scenes from the photographer's travels from the sub-continent to Africa and home in the West Indies where he has followed both the one-day and test cricket versions of the game. Jacks gave special thanks to Dellmar's family for putting up with his 'idiosyncratic behaviour'. Pear Tree Press is responsible for the project.

Time to mingle

Managing Director of Red Stripe Mark McKenzie and wife Betty listen keenly to Dr. Carlton Davis, who was guest speaker at the launch of Dellmar Samuels' book.

After the formalities, guests flocked to the shutterbug to get his autograph and to purchase copies of the work. Those who didn't get to view the exhibit at the start, took the time between cocktails and finger foods to take a glimpse at the eye-catching shots. Though the timing couldn't be more in sync with the ICC Cricket World Cup, there is a healthy dose of test cricket photos as well.

Guests included: Audley Boyd, Tony Becca, Kamal Bankay, Barbara Gloudon and daughter Anya, Brian Breese, Colin Campbell, Dr. Gordon Robotham, Wayne Lawrence, Wyvolyn Gager, Ed Barnes and Andre Wright.

Left: Head of Corporate Communications at Red Stripe Maxine Whittingham (left), head of Global Marketing Grace Silvera (centre) and Marie Powell at the launch of Headley 'Dellmar' Samuels book 'Cricket Spectacular' held at Red Stripe, Spanish Town Road on Saturday, March 3. Right: Shelley Sykes (left) chats with Carol Samuels.