If anyone ever doubts the impact sport can have on a local community, my experience this weekend highlights how positive it really can be.
Former England captain Mike Gatting and Yorkshire County Cricket Club President Dr Jane Powell were on hand to officially open the new pavilion at Higham Cricket Club – and what an impressive set up awaited us!
This is a club which had just one senior team and only 7 members 11 years ago. Now it’s thriving! The club bar was packed, standing room only on the viewing area outside. Families watching on with youngsters having a great time – all on the first weekend of the local cricket season in April! Higham now boast 4 senior teams, 2 female teams, 7 junior teams and 2 disability cricket teams.
Now they have a fantastic new facility, which is fully accessible to everyone and is the culmination of a decade’s worth of volunteering, fundraising and dedication to turn the club round. Mike Gatting mingled with players, guests and spectators. Sampled a beverage and the club pie and peas and shared stories from a career which included 79 Test matches, captaining an Ashes Series win in Australia, a broken nose in the West indies and a “passionate” on-field conversation with an umpire!
Jane Powell and Owen Jervis highlighted the significance of what Higham CC have accomplished for disability cricket and the opportunities this now provides players.
It was a hugely heart warming and enjoyable afternoon. One that emphasises local cricket in Yorkshire is alive and well! My thanks to Higham CC Chairman Dan Bamforth for inviting me to host the event and I wish everyone the best for the season ahead.
If you or your organisation are looking for an experienced event host and would like to discuss it or enquire about availability please visit my website for further details: www.rdgmedia.uk
