Charlton Down Cricket Club

Warm sunny days, cold beer, BBQ’s and good company. That’s right the cricket season is upon us again and with more than 60 games this year it promises to be a busy one.

Last season was a challenging one for the Club. Results wise we could and probably should have done better, but with the enthusiasm and effort shown during the winter net sessions, I am sure we will have a more successful campaign this year. We will again be fielding 3 teams this year, one Sunday league, and two evening league teams, with more Saturday friendlies arranged it will hopefully give everyone associated with the club an opportunity to be involved.

Our first “Club Tour” took place last year, and despite early setbacks was a great success. Being cheered and applauded by an entire pub because we had finally chosen to go in search of another drinking establishment, (which we were thrown out of within 10 minutes thanks to Nick) was a first for me. The next Tour is already arranged. Amazingly the Hotel is welcoming us back, despite Nick, so get your places booked.

Club Development  - The club decided to re-instate grass wickets last season and with an investment of c. £25,000, this has been, and will be continue to be our core focus over the coming years. The club has purchased its own Outfield Mower, Track Mower, Verticutter, Scarifyer and Wicket roller allowing us to fully manage and maintain our ground for the first time. If you wish to help out with this then please contact Ian Springer and offer your services.

We are in the process of building a garage to house all the equipment and the net facility was finally completed.

I would like to thank Phil Holdcroft for his efforts in managing the planning application for this which was not an easy process. Thanks should also go to The National Lottery, Lord Taverners and West Dorset District Council for their financial contributions towards this fantastic facility.

New Players - Like most clubs we are always on the lookout for new players. Typically this is best achieved through word of mouth and personal recommendation so I would ask that you trawl your contact lists and keep your ears and eyes open for new players. If you get the slightest interest then let Ian Doyle know and he will endeavour to sign them up.

Club Shop  - The club has a link on its website for most online retail purchases. If you ever purchase online please do so through this link, it supports our club financially at no penalty to you. Use the link in the top right hand corner of the page and ask if you are unsure what to do from there

Our club has developed so quickly over the past 5 years and this is down to it’s members. We now have club facilities that are, and should rightly be the envy of many clubs. Enjoy them, enjoy the cricket played, but most importantly enjoy your drink at the bar after a game and reflect on how lucky we are.

Best Regards     JB