2024 marks the 150th anniversary of the founding of Barrow Gurney Cricket Club. On 1 June 1874 a group of 30 villagers including the local Vicar got together and resolved to form a cricket club for the princely annual subscription of half a Crown (12 ½ pence in todays money).
The formation of the club is proudly displayed on the Pavilion Wall at Hobbs Lane
The club has a year of celebrations planned, including games against a Bristol & District League XI and an old-style single innings declaration game against MCC in August. There will be a special get together of past players as the Club plays the Barrow Gurney Legends in June, as well as a social event to mark the foundation day. The year will be rounded off with a formal dinner in September.
After 150 years the players now come from far and wide, but the club still strives to be a friendly village club where everyone is welcome, and every penny is spent on improving our facilities for players and spectators alike. Sponsorship is crucial to developing what the club can offer and, the club has forged good relations with existing sponsors, but there are opportunities for other local firms to get involved in this special anniversary year.
After the First XI acquitting themselves well in Division 4 last season, Barrow Gurney will be looking to improve on 4th place, whilst the Second XI will be seeking to move up the new regionalised structure of the B&D League. With a Midweek XI also playing league cricket, Sunday friendlies and of course the annual tour to Devon at the end of July, it promises to be a hectic summer of cricket with plenty of opportunity for players of all standards.
To prepare for the new season the club will be having weekly indoor nets on a Tuesday evening 6.30 to 8pm starting on 13 February at the Downs School in Failand (continuing until the end of March). New players and those who haven’t played for a while are more than welcome. Although the club do not have a junior or women’s section at present, there are several ladies who play in their teams and under 15s upwards aspiring to play senior cricket in a supportive environment are also welcome.
For more information contact Mark Forge on 07884 122301 or email barrowgurneycricket@gmail.com or see our website: https://barrowgurneycc.co.uk