2024 was another successful year for Edwinstowe Community Cricket Club. The goal of returning Saturday cricket to Forest Corner was achieved, with a team participating in the Bassetlaw and District Cricket League Division Six. Although a senior league, the team included many young junior cricketers, both male and female, making their first appearances in senior cricket and already making significant contributions with bat, ball, and fielding. In its first year, the team finished a very creditable third in the division.
Junior cricket continued to thrive, providing opportunities for children aged four to 15. The 2024 season saw further expansion, with increased participation and additional teams. The Club’s junior membership is now one of the largest of any club in the county, a remarkable achievement that is a source of great pride.
Off the field, the Club became an integral part of the community, organising numerous enjoyable events. The last Friday of each month became a must-visit occasion, featuring various food options and live music. In July, the Club held a fun day, raising funds not only for itself but also for local charities, including The Lashes Foundation, Edwinstowe Branch Royal British Legion, In Sam’s Name, and Macmillan Cancer Support.
As a valuable village facility, the Club’s building is now used by several local organisations, including Robin Hood Colts FC, Edwinstowe Running Club, Edwinstowe in Bloom, the Royal British Legion, RSPB Mansfield, and the District Cricket League. The venue has also been used for christenings, wakes, birthday parties, and, for the first time this year, a wedding reception. In October, the Club hosted the WAE UK Open Run Archery, welcoming competitors from across Europe. While not the first instance of archery in the Forest, it was undoubtedly a fantastic spectacle.
Autumn and winter may be quieter periods for cricket, but they are crucial for planning the upcoming season. Junior and women’s teams have been competing in county tournaments, achieving a high degree of success. The women’s team narrowly missed out on reaching the finals day at Trent Bridge – a fantastic effort in their first year. Indoor practice sessions are being held for all age groups to ensure readiness for the new season. Additionally, the Club has funded four men and women to complete the ECB coaching course, ensuring adequate support for its ever-growing junior membership.
Preparation for the new season is already underway off the field. A state-of-the-art pitch mower and scarifier have been purchased to maintain the ground’s high standards. The kitchen, toilets, and lounge area have been repainted, with new lounge furniture set to be installed before the season begins.
For the outdoor season, the Club will continue to focus on junior cricket, offering coaching and teams for All Stars (5-8 years), Dynamos (8-10 years), Under-9 Softball, Under-11 Softball, Under-11 Hardball, Under-12 Hardball, Under-13 Hardball, and Under-15 Hardball, along with an Under-15 Girls’ Softball team.
Following the success of the Saturday senior team, a second team has entered the League. The First Team will compete in Division Five, while a Development Team, aimed at nurturing junior players, will participate in Division Six. A Sunday team will also play friendly matches with Wellow Exiles CC. Meanwhile, the girls’ and women’s group is expanding, having joined the East Midlands Women’s League, initially competing in softball.
A range of social events is planned throughout the season, beginning in May. Notably, ‘Edwinstowe Day’ is scheduled for Saturday 28th June, with proceeds supporting Edwinstowe Royal British Legion, the Club’s chosen charity for the year. Updates will be posted on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.
Coming up
- Registration Evening: Thursday 18th April
- Softball Start: Thursday 25th April
- All Stars Start: Saturday 11th May
The Club’s continued success within the community is only possible thanks to the dedication of its volunteers and the generous support of local business sponsors.
Anyone interested in getting involved, whether through volunteering or sponsorship, is encouraged to contact Jon Garnham at 07967 487295 or edwinstowecc@gmail.com.