In his playing days he took 1019 first class wickets, 279 one-day wickets and scored nearly 8,000 runs.

Ray initially was the grounds manager and cricket coach at Ipswich School where he took great pride in the playing field, notably 'his' cricket square. He had the square relaid with the help of a specialist and despite it being out of action for a year Ray's efforts culminated in Ipswich School having a playing surface to be proud of where minor county games are regularly played, such is its reputation.

Ray's role as cricket coach incorporated other sports at the School, such as hockey, football, rugby and various other activities including cross country. During his time at the School Ray toured with various cricket teams travelling to Barbados, Grenada, South Africa, Australia, Holland and the Republic of Ireland.

Ray's knowledge and love of the game of cricket helped him become a highly respected coach and mentor where his skills were recognised by the National Cricket Association, coaching England at under 16 and under 19 levels. Many of those players went on to represent England including Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain, who became an England Captain. Ray has been a member of the MCC since 1983.

During his time at the School, Ray's method of coaching instilled a competitive edge but he also encouraged the importance of taking part, being a good team member and enjoying the game. Several Ipswich School pupils played minor county cricket for Suffolk and two, namely Gul Khan (OI 1990-92) and Nadeem Shahid (OI 1986-88) played professionally for Essex at first class level. Ray also helped to establish the beginning of girl pupils taking part in cricket, the results of which in the last few years has culminated in Ipswich School winning national cricket competitions at under 16 and under 19 age groups.

His cricketing highlights include winning the Benson and Hedges Cup in 1979 which was presented to Ray by the late, HRH Prince Philip the then Duke of Edinburgh, at Buckingham Palace. 

Ray says he feels greatly honoured to be the Old Ipswichian President for 2024 and is looking forward to attending the many OI events during the year ahead.