A CRICKET club at the heart of its local community for almost a century-and-a-half celebrated an important anniversary with a special one-off match. 

More than 100 invited guests joined spectators on Saturday, September 10, to mark 140 years since since the foundation of Weaverham Cricket Club in 1883.  

The event included a 50-over match between club legends, made up of older members past and present, and a president’s XI, hand-picked from its current crop of sporting talent.

Players on the day ranged from 16 to 60 years old, but experience won out in the end. 

The President's XI scored 165 all out, but were pipped at the post by the Legends, who reached their target with just two balls to spare, for the loss of six wickets.

The club also installed four new life members - Henrik Kazmierczek, Dave Lightfoot, Margaret Southerton, and Dave Wilson, and also raised a new flag over the clubhouse to replace the old one, which club secretary, Ian Bridge, said ‘looked like it'd been there since since 1883'. 

Ian added: “It was a fantastic game, and very close in the end. Loads of spirit and loads of fun, and a great way to celebrate the fact the club is now 140 years old.

“The weather was a little bit changeable. That’s the technical cricketing expression.

“The chairman, Jon Lightfoot, and president, John Armstrong, and me, felt it was a real celebration of what the club stands for.

“It’s not just a team where you turn up and play. There’s a real sense of belonging.

“There are a couple of younger lads who’ve been able to use to club to promote their own sense of self-worth. It’s being part of a team, and having the spirit to put yourself out there any play.

“The current crop of younger players are really interested in the history of the club, which is just fantastic."

The club invited more than 100 guests to their celebration, including members old and new, as well as local residents, as a way of thanking them for their support.

Ian said the club is looking at ways engage the wider Weaverham community further, adding: “The last six or seven months has shown there’s a real warmth towards Weaverham Cricket Club from the players, visitors, and everyone else.

“We’re certainly going to look to provide more events and games when the local community to just come down and get involved.

“They can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat and watch some great cricket played.

“It made us realise what a lovely village we had there, and the cricket club really feels part of it."