There is a new look to Bredon’s curtain-raiser for the 2018 season
There’s a new look to Bredon Cricket Club’s season curtain-raiser this year.
Our traditional cheese-and-wine evening is being replaced by an afternoon gathering for all the family that we’re calling the First of the Summer Wine.
There will be food, including a barbecue; activities for youngsters, the club raffle and live music from Joel Darkes (of Lunafall). Our licensed bar will be open throughout.
It is being held on Sunday, May 6, and the fun gets under way at 2pm.
There is an open invitation for people unfamiliar with the club to come along and find out what cricket at Bredon is all about.
Most of our junior team coaches will be at the curtain-raiser too, so parents can ask them about how we introduce youngsters to the game and develop their skills. See also our junior cricket FAQ.
Our chairman, Neil Hall, will be talking to visitors about the season ahead, and the ambitious plans we have to raise playing standards and make the club a hub for all ages in the community.
The scorebox in its cunning winter camouflageThe club’s lavish new extension was hastily erected before the snowfallIt’s not the first time the sight-screen has appeared hazy to some
Bredon Cricket Club’s Hill Close ground lay under a blanket of sun at the weekend.
Cricketers might well think of this scene as they stand on the boundary under a sweltering August sun next year!
The marquee was in place for a joint 50th celebration the night before. Happy birthday Eamonn, John and Chris.
Jan Washbourne’s cricket tea for the Second XI and their opponents
Jan Washbourne continued the club’s high standard of cricket teas with a delicious feast for the Second XI and their opposition, Kempsey, at Hill Close yesterday.
Thanks, Jan, and all those who have contributed teas to the club over the summer. Your efforts are most appreciated!
As traditional as the game of village cricket is the afternoon tea.
Teas are usually provided by the wives/girlfriends/families of the players.
I was truly daunted by my first cricket tea, but with a little help and a bit of practice I now have it down to a pretty fine art.
Here are some tips to get you started:
The tea rota is on the noticeboard in the clubhouse. If you are interested in providing a tea, please add your name to the preferred date and let me know.
My contact details are on the noticeboard or printed in the yellow fixture booklet. Any help is greatly appreciated and really spreads the workload.
If, for any reason, the game is cancelled the team captain or myself will let you know.
I usually shop on Friday evening, having checked the weather forecast first!
I cater for about 30 people (15 on each team), and like to be in the clubhouse setting up by 3.30pm.
Check the number of overs that have been played to gauge how quickly you need to get ready.
If you are in any doubt just ask one of the players waiting to bat. They are always very happy to help!
The first thing I do is put sufficient water in the urn and put it on.
Lay out your selection of afternoon tea, putting a pile of plates at one end, cups at the other. I also have a jug of squash in case not everyone is having tea.
I usually provide a mixture of savouries, sandwiches and cakes.
Savouries might include mini pork pies, sausage rolls, samosas, cocktail sausages, pizzas etc.
Lucy Donovan, right, suggests arriving at the game by 3.30pm to start preparing your tea
Sandwiches – three loaves of bread made into two fillings such as ham, egg, tuna etc. By the way, apparently the crusts are meant to be cut off!
A selection of four family-sized cakes – sponge, scones, traybake.
Sometimes I add a dip with cucumber, carrot sticks and pepper.
Cheese and crackers are popular too.
I always have a plate of fruit (watermelon, grapes, strawberries) and a couple of bowls of crisps.
You will also need a pint of milk.
Once teas are finished and play has resumed the washing up needs to be done.
I do it by hand rather than use the dishwasher, but it’s up to you.
All plates, cutlery, mugs, glasses etc need to be washed, dried and put away. I always take my own washing up kit.
Wipe down all the tables, work surfaces, sweep the kitchen floor if necessary etc.
Please make up two jugs of squash and leave them in the fridge for the next drink break.
Most importantly, don’t forget to be reimbursed your tea money before you go. You will receive £40.
I really enjoy providing cricket teas and hope you do as well. Your delicious afternoon tea will be thoroughly appreciated by all the players, umpires, scorers and spectators.
Should you have any questions my number is available from the clubhouse noticeboard or is printed in the yellow fixture booklets.
CricketForce Day encourages both club members and the local community to get together for a few hours to prepare everything for the start of play on April 22.
Martyn Draper will again be organising things, so ask for him when you arrive at Hill Close.
Tea, coffee and bacon butties will be provided for volunteers.
