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Registered Charity Number: 1198698 ## _2024 cricket highlights_ ## Men’s: Seasons Highlights Face to face mee�ngs took place regularly throughout the year. During the cricket season these were less formal and held at the club house a�er training sessions. Steering group consists of: Rob Hawk – Chair, Richard Dunn, Simon Flowers, and Connor Karvaski. A�endees have also included Senior and Strollers captains, representa�ves from ground and maintenance team, Richard Bartram, Rachael Bartram, and Maggie Hawk as minute secretary. It should be remembered that the groups terms of reference are broadly speaking as follows: - The group is not/should not be concerned with individual selec�on of persons. - Iden�fy roles and responsibili�es as the group evolves to deliver agreed objec�ve plans. - Development of women’s cricket - arrangements, recruitment, Sunday fixtures, and the development of 16–21-year-olds to play in senior teams. The group were unable to appoint a suitable candidate for the role of player coach, we subs�tuted this with the coach’s role being split between senior players on Thursday evenings. We would s�ll like to appoint a player coach for the coming season if the right candidate can be found. James Dunston, our overseas player for the 2024 season, from Australia, fi�ed in very well, although he was injured, and out of ac�on for 6 weeks. The club would like an overseas in 2025. The captains appointed for the 2024 were as follows: - 1[st] – Ryan Price, Vice-Captain Peter Hawk - 2[nd] – Ben Hansford - 3[rd] – Jus�n Gray, Vice-Captain Simon Flowers - Sunday X1 – Conner Karvaski, Vice-Captain Ryan Price - Strollers – Neil Meredith, Manager – Chris Cha�away All the captains worked extremely hard, in what was another challenging year. 1st and 2[nd] X1 maintained their posi�ons in their leagues and the 3[rd] X1 had a much more promising year. All captains included junior players in their teams, which improved their progression into senior cricket. ## Selec�on Policies - 1[st] X1 to pick strongest team from pool of players, followed by 2[nd] then 3[rd] X1s. - Junior players, unless ready for 1[st] X1 cricket should be selected in 2[nd] /3[rd] X1s to develop their skills. - Sunday cricket struggled with availability; we may have to restructure Sunday cricket going forward. Spond Team App was used in 2024 for 90% of teams. It has proved to be a very useful tool. Winter/preseason: winter nets will be at Hagley RC school in February and March and preseason will start at the ground from April. 3 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 Thanks must go to Pete Dickenson who was the 1[st] X1 scorer and proved to be an asset in the successful team and Nick Kates was appointed club umpire. ## Investment - To appoint an overseas - To appoint a player coach or a senior non-playing coach - To provide master classes for 14/15/16/year olds breaking into senior cricket - To provide compe��ve matches for our 17+ players 2024 priori�es met: 1[st] X1 retained their place in division 2, 2[nd] X1 remained stable, 3[rd] X1 had their best season for a few years and the100 ball slam team reached the final, because of weather this is s�ll to be played. Ground: Wickets con�nued to improve, in what was a very challenging wet season. Ver�-cu�ng is now paying dividends and new drainage to the ou�ield. JR and the team should be very pleased, with the wickets and ou�ield, one of the best prepared grounds in the county. Rob Hawk, Senior Steering Group ## Women’s: Seasons Highlights 2024 Season was the start of Women’s Soft at BCC and from a standing start we have 20+ members participating, almost all new members and had never played cricket before. Belbroughton Belles enrolled in the Soft Ball festivals at WCC of which there were 12 and a Mega Fest at New Road. We managed to participate in 8 of the 12 after rain and holidays affected play. The Belles gelled well creating a tight team who supported each other throughout the season. Every player improved greatly in skill and confidence. With the help of coaches, from WCC Development Team, Rob Hawk, John Raybould, Ben Hansford, James Dunston, Matt Evans, plus all the supporters who have followed us at the festivals, we thank them. We also would like to thank our sponsors, Bud Light, a player family sponsor, Hawk Cricket, and Belbroughton CC for all your help in funding and enabling us to the have correct kit and coaching. Rachael Bartram, Women’s Steering Group ## _a message from our team captains_ 1[st] IX Captains Report: Following promo�on to Division 2, finishing second the season before, this was a good opportunity to see where we were in rela�on to the other teams. Having not been in this division for 2 seasons. 4 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 ul�mately came out with the win a�er bowling us out for 111. We also had a debut for our new overseas James Dunston, who no�ced how cold England could be up on that hill. May brought some good �mes, in our next match we travelled to a strong Colwall side, scoring 107 on a very s�cky and tricky wicket. We ended up not only defending this score but bowling out Colwall for 69. George Dean 9 overs 2 for 10, James Dunston 10 overs 2 for 16, Cam Harvey 8 overs 3 for 20. Through May we picked up 1 win, 1 loss and 1 cancelled. The Main highlight of May was playing Barnards Green away, the team who won the league last season we knew how tough they are to play at home let alone away. Barnards Green won the toss and put us into bat thinking they could bowl us out cheaply however, we got a very good total on tough deck and scored 210, No�ceable performances from Pete Hawk scoring 102 off only 123 balls, and Tom Lawson 34. When it came to bowling everyone bowled fantas�cally well and we fielded very clean and with good energy and we bowled Barnards Green out for 176. No�ceable performance from George Dean 10 overs 3 for 38. A great win. scoring 308 for a loss of only 5 wickets. We refused to lie down as a team and posted 234 in reply resul�ng in a draw, Tom Lawson 77, and Ryan Price 62*. We then played Astwood Bank, winning the toss, and elected to bowl resul�ng in Astwood Bank being 8 down for 149. A good bowling display from the team, with standout performances from Ryan Price 10 overs 3 for 34 and Connor Karvaski 13 overs 2 for 38. We then travelled to Bromsgrove, a side that we rarely beat, this was something we wanted to put right. We lost the toss and put into bat, which proved a good decision, we scored 262 for 9, Alex Mcgarry 61, Cameron Harvey 61 and Tom Lawson 61 helping us reach a very good total. Their top 3 proved to be very strong and got them off to a great start, however we managed to pull them back and they got 247 for 8 off 50 overs, No�ceable performances, George Flowers 13 overs 2 for 59, Conner Karvaski 15 overs 2 for 54 and Ryan Price 14 overs 3 for 61. July, we played Enville away, again the weather wasn’t our friend, reducing the game to 33 overs, scoring 149. Ben Spells 28 and Ryan Price 59 off 69 balls. We proceeded to get Enville out for 114 for 9. Great bowling from Dunston 9 overs 3 for 23, Connor Karvaski 8 overs 3 for 22. An all-round good display from everyone. 8[th] out of 12 teams. Thank you to everyone who played first team cricket last year and thank you to all the behind-the-scenes people, John Raybould and Rich Bartram in par�cular. Let’s go again next year!! ## Ryan Price, 1[st] IX Captain 2nd IX Captains Report: Firstly, a huge thank you to the Division 6 Groundsman of the Year, John Raybould, and his team, without whom we wouldn’t have enjoyed some of the wonderful games and run chases. Also personal thanks to Richard Dunn, for his support, sarcasm and advice as the season progressed, Andy McKevitt for his insatiable appetite and impeccable attitude and of course to all the players, for continuing to promote the team spirit we all enjoy. It was once again a very tough season, full of ups and downs! After losing our first game of the season to the weather, the season opened with a humbling defeat at home, to newly promoted Himley 3[rd] XI who were expected to push for successive promotions. Led kindly by Richard Dunn and missing a few regular second team players to the firsts including Jamie Mackenzie and captain Ben Hansford, the seconds were set a challenging 165 to win in a reduced 32 overs game. Mikesh probably the 5 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 pick of the bowlers with 1-28 off his 7 overs. Sadly, Belbroughton collapsed to 39 all out, with only Chris Mackenzie reaching double figures, despite a well reported “fall” whilst bowling. Hoping to bounce back immediately, the bowl hosted Colwall 2XI, again newly promoted and favourites for a promotion push. Defending 111 (C Mackenzie top score 23), George Flowers (2-24), Jamie Mackenzie (2-18) and the standout Mikesh (6-19) saw Belbroughton home, bowling Colwall out for 99 with a wonderful bowling and fielding display. We took a very young team to Harvington away, with Yuvraj Singh-Man making his 2XI debut. Harvington posted 226-7 in a full 45 overs, George Flowers the pick of the bowlers with 4-35, Yuvraj picking up 1-20 in 5, and Max Deacy 2-33 in 9. Sadly, the reply fell way short, bowled out for 139 with Hansford (52) and Flowers (24) offering any meaningful resistance. After a mixed start to the season, the seconds won their next two, posting 193 at home to Chaddesley (Deacy with a sparkling 51, McKevitt 32, Argent 27 and G Flowers 27) before bowling the local enemy out for 113 (J Mac 3-18, Deacy 2-21). This win was quickly followed by a convincing win away at Old Vigs, Belb posting 253 (S Thomas 80, J Mac 53, R Wrigley 40), before bowling out Old Vigs for 155 (Deacy 4-32, G Bartram 2-25). The Old Vigs game saw the most remarkable incident as Steve Thomas contrived to whack Chris Mackenzie in the head with his bat as they passed each other running a single, knocking Chris out and seeing him miss the subsequent games suspected concussion. Belb then welcomed Bromsgrove 3XI to the bowl, who posted a challenging 258 to win (Deacy again the pick of the bowlers with 2-26 off 9 and T Flowers 2-26 off 6). At 159-3 the chase was well and truly on before sadly collapsing to 241 all out with only one of the last six batters to make double figures. (Hansford 58 and Malanaphy 46 topping the run scorers). A trip to Claverly again saw us ship a large total to chase, this time 250 to win (with R Wrigley picking up 5-70 and Deacy 0-25 off his 9 overs, the only bowlers to escape with credit). The chase got off to the worst of starts seeing us 15-2 in the third over. Before Dunn and Hansford steadied the ship with a stand of over 120. Dunn the victim of an exhausted run out after a marvellous 58. Hansford continued, putting on 60 with Wrigley, before falling for a run a ball 103, Wrigley finishing off a wonderful chase with 41 not out to secure a fantastic away win against a shell shocked Claverly. With rain claiming the home tie to Alveley, the first 10 games saw us third in the league with a record of W4 L4 and 2 abandoned to rain. Hopes of a promotion challenge were quietly being discussed in the bar (usually after too many beverages). Sadly, those discussions were short lived, as the seconds had to wait 2 months until their next win. After much soul searching, the ultimate reason being a run of poor availability in the first team that saw our better players called up to the firsts, this coincided with fixtures against each of the top 6 in the league. Not wanting to dwell on that tough 2 months too much, which was the toughest run the seconds had ever been on, and saw us looking over our shoulders at relegation, I’ll summarise that the first half of that run included humbling’s by Himley, an all-round awful display away at Colwall before coming out the wrong side of a close chase of 214 at home to eventual champions Harvington (G Flowers picking up 2 for and a sparkling 48, supported by Hansford, 44 and Argent 40). 6 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 Those defeats saw us travel to fellow relegation contenders Chaddesley in a must win game. Again, we shipped over 200 in the field, being set 231 to win, despite four bowlers picking up a brace each, former Scottish International James Brinkley posted a classy 82 not out, making the difference for the hosts. Half centuries from Stanley (50) and Dunn (53) weren’t enough to avoid defeat. We hosted Claverly at the bowl, needing a win, our failure to build pressure in the field told and we found ourselves chasing 293 to win (Deacy 3-37 the pick of the bowlers). A fine opening stand of 81 between Thomas (39) and Stanley (67) got us off to a solid start before we stumbled to 119-2 off 23 and then 122-3 off 25. The next 20 overs saw a remarkable display of hitting by Charlie Felton, who supported by Hansford put on a match winning stand of 161 in 20 overs, Felton ending with an outstanding 78 not out off 46 balls, and Hansford 47 not out off 39. Again, Claverly were left shell shocked having witnessed in one season, two of the best Belbroughton run chases ever, this time with 2 overs to spare! We were soon brought back down to earth, at Alverley a weakened team posted 223, thanks in large to a classy 98 not out by Kates, supported by Felton (30) and Deacy (36 not out). Alverely chased down the target with 4 overs to spare, despite the best efforts of Felton (3-19) and C Mackenzie (2-43) Needing to win 2 of the final 4 games to secure safety from relegation, or pick up good points hauls in defeat, we waited in the rain at home to Cutnall Green for a reduced overs game, fearful a T20 might suit them, but also aware a T20 would allow us to pick up good points. We were right on both counts. Cutnall Green posted 232 in their 20, we were fortunate to witness a remarkable display of hitting as Wasim Ali smashed 109 off 42 balls. Our chase didn’t get anywhere near, but by making 119 in our 20 we walked away with 7 points. Leaving us to only need to win one of our final 3 games. This win came away at Kidderminster, we posted 323-5, J Mac with a sparkling 95 off 48 balls, Kates with 46 and George Flowers with a much deserved 62 not out. Kidderminster falling 75 runs short thanks to Mack Argent (3-67), Chris Mac (3-62) and George Flowers (2-42). It should have been a more comprehensive win had we not shipped a staggering 50 extras. Eagle eyed watchers will have witnessed a quiet handshake between Hansford and Dunn at the fall of Kidderminster’s 5[th] wicket, which had secured our division 6 status, win, or lose, although the 20-point winning haul more than secured our place in the league. With the pressure off, we enjoyed a comprehensive win at already relegated Old Vigs, bowling them out for 122, R Wrigley destroying them with 7-7 off six overs and becoming a viral “village cricket” sensation after footage of his final wicket amassed 250,000 views online! Felton (39 no) and Dunn (21no) saw us comfortably home with 7 wickets to spare. Ahead of the final game of the season, we were thankful we didn’t need to win, as availability across the club was unusually atrocious and we struggled to field two sides. We fell to 114 all out away at Bromsgrove (Tom Pardoe top scoring with 20), Bromsgrove chasing the target down for 5 wickets, C Mackenzie claiming 3 of them for 21. Finally, thank you to the Committee and club for continuing to support us, rain, or shine. Ben Hansford, 2[nd] IX Captain 7 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 3[rd] IX Captains Report: The third team had a season of weather disruptions where we began slowly but improved to finish fourth. We benefited from some excellent youth section bowlers and must give credit to all the coaches involved in developing young players. There were also some excellent batting contributions from senior players. The weather caused 4 of our first 7 fixtures to be abandoned which caused frustration and left us trailing in the league behind clubs who had managed to play their games. When we did play our first match, our bowling and fielding were rusty, and we lost to a Hagley side thanks to the 48 wides/no-balls our senior bowlers sent down. Once the sun reappeared and pitches dried out, it was our young bowlers who led the way with really disciplined lines and lengths. At the beginning of August, an attack led by our young bowlers went through an innings without bowling a single no-ball or wide. With accuracy came wickets usually in 4s. Issac Harvey demolished Redditch's top order taking 4 for 7; in the return game Sam Lawton took 4 wickets; Mati Stendall matched Isaac's 4 for 7; Finlay Stephenson also took 4 this time against in-form Himley; not to be out done Harry Downes took 4 against Pedmore; Ben Gray returned from university to take 4 against Avoncroft. The bowlers were better supported by the fielders than we usually see in the 3s. There were very few dropped catches and both Steve Harvey and Roy Maidment threw themselves around with exemplary commitment. Matt Evans shared the wicketkeeping with Toby Locke-Wheaton. Jake Moorse took a stunning catch to win the game versus Avoncroft. Our batting line-up changed each week which impacted on our ability to build partnerships and find consistency. Having said that there were some brilliant individual performances. Matt Evans tops the scoring; Neil Meredith averaged 82; Noah Ward 69; Andy MacKenzie, Andy Hickingbottom and Jake Moorse chased down 204 for the loss of 2 wickets against Five Ways OE; both Phil and Mitchell Harrison both won games with their batting; Steve Harvey scored a career best. We lost two important players to injury during the season. Our vice-captain, Simon Flowers, had to have surgery on his hand after getting in the way of a ferocious shot off his own bowling. Adam Burrows spent an hour lying across the wicket waiting for paramedics after he dislocated his knee while batting. Thankfully both have recovered. With such a strong young bowling attack, we look forward to next season with confidence. Jus�n Gray, 3[rd] IX Captain Belbroughton Belles Captains Report: We started with 8 winter net sessions learning the basic of Cricket ahead of our first Festival at Coombs Wood in May. At this festival we won 2 out of the 3 matches and it gave us a great boost of confidence. Kidderminster came next which was tough, high temperatures and up against some seriously good teams we managed to win 1 of the 3 matches. Oldswinford festival was a turning point for us, our regular, well attended weekly training sessions concentrating on improving our skills, fielding drills, bowling, batting, communication, and the teamwork was really paying off, we won 2 matches convincingly with one loss. Cookhill Festival reminded us of the importance of teamwork, we only had 4 players attending so had to join up with other team of spare players. Although a fun day it reminded us of the importance a tight team is for strategy and strength. Some star individual performances to note was the incredible bowl and caught by Jo Lawton at the Worcester Nomads Game. Josie Adams with a 3-wicket haul in the season, in one game a precision throw to hit the wicket 8 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 resulting a loss of an important wicket for the opposition. Liz Townes batted some impressive 6’s and in our last festival a flurry to win the game. All The Belles worked incredibly hard achieving personal and team goals across the season, they should all be very proud. We are looking forward to the 2025 season when we hope to enter the WCC Development League, host a home Festival, increase our membership, and introduce more girls and women 14+ to Soft Ball Cricket for Belbroughton Cricket Club. Rachael Bartram, Belbroughton Belles Captain Sunday IX Captains Report: Sundays have been great over the last 12 months, on a personal aspect, but also for the club itself. We have hosted some great days, including our annual Dooley XI game and our new University of Birmingham Cricket Society (Cricsoc) game. We have had some good wins and some tight losses this year on a Sunday, but the main things are that the youth and younger generation have got some cricket in and learnt from these experiences. Starting off the season with a great day out against Cricsoc was enjoyable for all involved, I’d like to say a personal thank you to Tom Bartram for organising the fixture and Rachael Bartram for organising a highquality afternoon tea! Todd Stevens having the highlight of taking a hat trick, the first Sunday hat trick since myself! We ended the season with a great day against the Dooley XI, which once again, I’d like to thank David for all his hard work throughout the day and to the ladies again for a fantastic tea. We had good wins against Hagley and Pedmore throughout the middle of the season, with all the youth contributing which was fantastic to see. We also had our Sunday slam tournament, which we somehow found ourselves in the final with only playing 1 game! Unfortunately, the weather was the winner at New Road, this will be organised at the start of next year, where we will look to win the trophy, and defend it at the end of the year too. To all the volunteers who helped on Sundays, including the belles, who had their own games, and to Rich, Graham, John, and all other volunteers, I would like to say a big thank you for all your help and support for the last 4 seasons while I have been Sunday captain, it doesn’t go unnoticed. My final thank you is to all the parents who have sacrificed their Sundays travelling with their kids to bring them to all the ground over the summer and sticking around watching me try to play cricket! I’d also like to say a big thanks to all the lads who stepped in when we were short in the tough times, including Pete Hawk, Spellsy and JD, as well as many more, it was and always will be appreciated. Connor Karvaski, Sunday IX Captain 9 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 Strollers IX Captains Report: The season started well with a commanding victory over The Fossils with Alex McGary scoring a cavalier 50 not out. Phil Harrison was Man of the Match in the local derby against Pedmore with his 4 wickets and 27 runs and ably assisted at the crease by Tom Oliver and Steve Thomas both 25 not out. This secured a brace of victories in our first 2 games which was equal to the brace of games lost at this stage of the season due to the weather. Next up was The Talbot youth team who gave us ageing strollers the run around although we saw some fine batting performances from Richard Dunn and Neil Meredith scoring 26 and 22 respectively. Astwood Bank proved to be very charitable by giving us 48 extras in our score of 171 for 1 with Tom Oliver 26, Bryn Thomas 28, Alan Rapley 25 and Neil Meredith 25 all not out. Our bowlers were more frugal with the extras and restricted the Bank to 114 for 9. As the solstice approached the expectation of warm sultry evenings playing cricket became just a dream with frequent downpours and numerous Google searches for AccuWeather. In one of our next games, we now found ourselves facing Alex McGarry who had defected to play for the Jonny Lee XI. Unfortunately, along with others Alex was yet again in fine form retiring on 27 with Jonny's team posting an imposing score of 192. We were no match to this although Bryn Thomas and Neil Meredith were both not out on 27. We saw fine batting performances by Nick Kates 26 not out and Steve Thomas 25 not out against Worcester Ramblers but even with 25 extras we could only amass 108. This was knocked off with relative ease although Olly Meredith did put a spoke in the works with his 4 wickets. The other local derby against Clent was a very close affair with the visitors winning by 2 runs and our skipper Neil Meredith top scoring with 26 not out. The notable bowling performance in this game was from our 2023 Player of the Season Dave Weston with his 4 wickets. Another 4 wickets for Westy in our next game proved to be too much for the Stu Wilmore XI and if this form continued for Westy it looked like the engravers could be carving his name out yet again at the end of the season. Alas it didn't. The Wilmore XI were restricted to 110 and this was surpassed with ease by Nick Kates and Neil Meredith both not out on 28 and 25 respectively. Andy Farmer rolled back the years taking a couple of wickets and scoring 22 not out in a close game against a Tom Raybould XI where we chased down 151 to win. We were unable to secure the double over Pedmore although Nick Kates and Geoff Day made a valiant attempt with 25 and 26 respectively both not out. Bryn Thomas and Alan Rapley were top scorers in our defeat against Feckenham, both scoring 25 not out. I have no recollection as to how our bowlers performed in that game and the scorebook could not assist either as our bowling analysis comprised of a single question mark! Surely, we would get the double over those creaking Fossils and with Andy McKevitt 38 not out, Gordon Harker 36 not out, Yuvraj 37 not out and Harry Mullins 26 we set them a target of 169 in 35 overs. This was not to be, and The Fossils staggered in with a couple of overs to spare. The highlight of the season was Yuvraj's 90 not out against Himbleton in our only weekend fixture of the season. We amassed 216 in 40 overs and won the game by 47 runs. Tom Richardson was another notable scorer in that game with a fine innings of 29. The final game of the season against Worcester Police went against us with Nick Kates top scoring on 25 not out. It was great to have Nick back in the team after an 10 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 absence of a few years and I would just like to thank everyone who played for the strollers this season along with John and his ground staff team and Rachael and her team of helpers who did a lot of the catering for us this season. Many thanks. Chatters. Chris Cha�away, Strollers IX Captain ## _youth development update_ Junior & Youth Season Report: The Winter nets for our junior teams began in February. We had 24 boys and girls attend the Friday sessions which were run on a fully integrated basis which proved challenging because of the age ranges. For 2025 we plan to invite girls and boys in the U10-U13 age groups provided they are part of/wish to be part of a hard ball team. The Thursday sessions had much fewer participants due to several departures in the close season and Winter Sports and School commitments. Efforts will have to be made to have this session better supported in 2025 given the 7/8-week facility expenses and coaching costs to which the Club will be committed by combining the Senior Sessions with the U14s-15s squads on a weekday evening. The Junior Summer nets started from April, with good attendance at sessions on Mondays and Tuesdays. On Friday evenings we held our All-Stars, Young Tons Boys and Girls, Y5 Boys and Under 10 and Under 11 girls practice sessions which were regularly attended by 100 plus throughout the summer. 11 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 Our All-Stars Programme in 2024 was also another success with 60 plus attendees and several Y3 boys and girls transitioning to our Young Tons Programme rather than the Dynamos programme. All Stars/Young Tons Summary - APRIL - MAY 2023 67 All Stars signed/ APRIL-MAY 2024 63 All Stars signed. - % BOYS 2024-63%/ % GIRLS 2024-37% - AVERAGE AGE-6 (Y3s and Y4s are generally encouraged to move to Young Tons) - NEW ALL STARS 2024-32. RETURNING 2023 ALL STARS IN 2024-31 - 2023 All Stars moving to 2024 Young Tons-21 (33 YTs in total) - 2023 All Stars that neither returned as an All Star or a Young Ton-15 Our coaching partners will, based on the Friday night managers’/coaches’ feedback also be encouraged to lead the Young Tons and older group sessions in a more structured manner with periodic intervention to develop skills progressively in 2024. Y5 hard ball squads will train with the Y6 hard ball squad on Tuesdays to free up space for more small, sided games/drills. The Friday sessions were again extended until the end of July which resulted in another significant number of food and beverage sales on those nights. Thanks to the bar team, the volunteer team in the kitchen, the volunteer stokers of the BBQ and the safeguarding supervisors who were expertly supervised under the watchful eye of Tony Boardman, the Club’s Vin Consultant and Chef Sommelier, at the same time as effectively glad handing the parents with the JCC. Also special thanks to Jill Turner for organizing the challenging task of appointing adult DBS’ d supervision teams in the Winter and Summer and for communicating plans with parents and coaches. We received very positive feedback from several parents about our Friday night winter and summer training programmes. The Youth Presentation Day was another success with several intra club games involving many age groups which were each followed by a presentation. Our thanks to all those who contributed to the day, making it a friendly family atmosphere. The progression of Youth players into the Senior ranks has continued with several establishing themselves in the First team, another group moving into the Second XI and more young players from the Under 14s and U15s becoming regulars in the 3rd XI. Thanks goes to all the Senior Captains who have assisted the integration of the younger players so successfully. A summary of each team’s performances appears in Appendix 1. Many thanks go to all the managers and their assistants for running the teams throughout the 2024 season. Dave Glover, Junior Cricket Coordinator Safeguarding & Welfare Report: At Belbroughton Cricket Club, we consider Safeguarding on all levels. We believe that Cricket is a game to be played and enjoyed, and we provide a safe environment for this to happen. The welfare of every member underpins our success as a club. 12 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 All captains, vice captains, coaches, and volunteers follow club welfare procedures. They have all undergone a DBS check, which ensures that they have no background that would make them unsuitable for such a posi�on. It is very important that all players feel safe and welcome at the club. During the current season, I have undertaken several new DBS checks and would like to thank everyone for their coopera�on in ge�ng this sorted. We have several junior members and run teams for many age groups Our youngest members, the ‘all-stars’ (years recep�on to Y3) are offered ten sessions of ‘playing with coaching’ on Friday nights during the summer. These sessions and those of the young tons are very well a�ended, at �mes there are around a hundred children involved in Cricket ac�vi�es on the field. Careful supervision is paramount to the success of these sessions, as well as employed coaches we arrange for supervisors from amongst the volunteers and parents to support these sessions. Thank you to all the parents who have happily helped with the organisa�on and supervision of the children, we could not run the sessions without their support. As the children move on, they are encouraged to join team training and become members of an ‘age group’ squad. Each squad has a coach and volunteer parents to support them. Again, it is important that parents a�end matches and coaching sessions so that all children can be always supervised. As our teenage members begin to represent the club at the senior level, we are s�ll keen that the parents of these children support their development through safe prac�ce and by encouraging them to enjoy playing whilst following the e�que�e of the game. Players and their families are welcome at the club, we encourage them to get involved and enjoy the club atmosphere. To con�nue our success as a club we need to maintain our shared vision of care, respect, and sportsmanship amongst all our members. ## ## _social, fundraising & key events._ Bar & Catering: The 2024 Season was a successful year in bar takings. We were able to open Sunday’s, Monday, and Tuesday evenings with the help of volunteer’s junior parents almost every week. We had an amazing team covering the bar on Wednesday for the Strollers fixtures, Thursday’s training night, Fridays All Stars and training and the Senior weekends fixtures. With the building of the new outdoor kitchen, BBQs were a plenty this year along with our tradi�onal cob offering, strollers and sponsors teas and the odd chicken wrap, we were able to raise much needed funds, feed players, spectators, and friends. ## Key Events  Car Show - Was a great success enabling us to also support Mary Stephens Hospice along with raising money for BCC, thank you to Andy Hickinbottom. 13 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 - Sponsors &Volunteer Days - This day enabled us to thank our sponsors and volunteers for their continued support. - World Cup - We opened the bar and welcomed many to watch the game in the clubhouse, we held a World Cup sweepstake too. - Quiz and Bingo Night - A fun night of Quizzing and Bingo raising money for our charity Partner of 2024 Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven. - Six-a-Side Sunday - A great day for our senior playing members. An auction of players kicked off proceedings then a fun Six-a-Side competition ending with a BBQ and drinks. - Junior Presentation - Bank Holiday Monday, BBQ, matches and presentation throughout the day ending with a parent and lads’ game. Fun was had by all. - Scarecrow Weekend - Heavy rain didn't dampen our spirits as we carried on full steam ahead supporting the event with volunteers on Car Park, Marshaling, Bar and Catering duties. - Belbroughton Beer Festival - The first at its new home at Belbroughton Cricket Club. The day was organised by the BBF team Tom Bartram, Richard Bartram, Ron Morgan and supported well by several BCC members, a great turnout of volunteers. Thank you to all the volunteers who have helped throughout 2024. Rachael Bartram, Bar, Catering & Events ## _goals & objec�ves_ 2025 Upcoming Season: Following a very productive 2024 with new infrastructure around the ground, we will now turn our attention to improvements to the playing surface with the addition of a new power roller and improved cutting and preparation cassettes for the mowers. We are also looking at improving ground drainage and the installation of a sprinkler/rainwater harvesting system which will in turn lead to improved car parking areas at the ground. In addition, we will continue to develop the club facilities behind the scenes, giving us better access and space to evolve into. On the playing side our main objective is to bolster our first team, to eliminate the need for relying on Seconds & Thirds squad players continually being called up on a makeshift basis. Alongside this we are looking to recruit a player coach, to help with player development across the club. We are currently working through a list of 8 players who we know locally could become available, even half of this number would serve us well. Turning to the Youth structure, we are working on a new localised competition aimed at under 23s. The idea here is we have a focussed group of younger players who can play, train, and develop together as they move through the club. Providing more of a transition rather than it being Youth then Senior, longer format games. Our medium to long term aim is to get back to WCCL Div 1 for 1[st] XI, Div 5 for 2[nd] ’s and stabilise Div 8 position for 3[rd] IX. 14 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 ## Acknowledgements Our club is a tight knit group of people who have the success of the club as their central focus. Our successes on and off the pitch are due in no small part to our loyal membership and healthy crop of volunteers who keep the ground, club, and social aspects of the club where it is. We acknowledge everyone’s efforts, the committee, and all members both playing and non-playing. We continue to be supported by many key club sponsors and partners. We are grateful for their ongoing support as their contributions help us to achieve things that would be out of our reach normally. ## Commi�ee Member Changes This season sees a changing of the guard within the management committee. After a significant period of service to the club Tony Boardman will stand down as Honorary Secretary, having helped guide the club to where it finds itself today. Jill Turner also steps down as the clubs Safeguarding Officer, again an invaluable role to the club. Dave Knights is also stepping down from his role of gardener at the ground. The dedica�on shown by Tony, Jill and Dave is an inspira�on to us all. Your dedica�on, day in and day out, didn’t go unno�ced and we are all truly thankful for all your hard work! ## Richard Bartram, Vice Chairman 15 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 ## _statement of accounts 2024_ ## REVENUE ANALYSIS - Membership Subscriptions: Membership revenue increased, with Senior Player subscriptions rising by £53 and Junior Player subscriptions by £3,265, reflecting a substantial growth in junior memberships. This trend aligns with the continued success of the Allstars programme and the Young Tons, both of which contributed positively to BCC’s income. - Fundraising Activities: Fundraising income dropped by £3,301year-on-year. The primary factors include a significant reduction in income from the scarecrow parking event due to poor weather and low attendance and the discontinuation of the 100 Club this year. However, these losses were partially offset by strong performances in other events, particularly the Beer Festival, which was newly organized this year by Ronnie, Richard, and Tom Bartram, generating £3,800, and the Vintage Car Rally, which contributed an increase of £1,262. - Bar Sales: Bar sales remained stable year-on-year, with a slight increase in margin. However, the overall gain was somewhat offset by higher card machine charges, reducing the final net impact. - Miscellaneous Income: Advertising and sponsorship revenue increased by £732, reflecting stronger engagement from local businesses. Additionally, donations saw a slight increase. Amortised grants, however, decreased by £1,564 due to the accounting adjustment, which spreads previously received grant income. ## EXPENDITURE ANALYSIS - Ground and Playing Expenses: Ground maintenance costs rose by £1,116, which includes one-off costs related to clearing a new area at the back of the club. Playing expenses saw a modest decrease of £688, largely due to reduced coaching expenses. - Pavilion Expenses: Overall, pavilion expenses remained consistent year-on-year, showing a net increase of £338. Key drivers include higher insurance and heating/lighting costs due to contract renewals, partially offset by reduced spending on upkeep and repairs after significant recent investments to bring the pavilion to its current standard. - Miscellaneous Costs: Notable increases in miscellaneous costs include donations and IT costs. The IT expenses cover the FrogBox annual subscription, along with fees for maintaining club domains and websites. - Surplus for the Year: The club reported an accounting surplus for the year of £6,880, a pleasing increase compared to last year’s surplus of £1,593. Although we must be mindful non-cash income/expenses and one-off items, including grant amortisation, depreciation, profits on the sale of fixed assets, and a onetime HMRC receipt. The overall cash balance of the club remained stable, increasing by £467 in the year. ## FIXED ASSET AND BALANCE SHEET ANALYSIS - Fixed Assets: The club invested £12,591 in fixed assets, with total fixed assets growing slightly after accounting for depreciation. Key additions include a new mower and the pergola. Additionally, the club 16 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 has committed to purchasing a new power roller in 2025 at a cost of £16,950, for which an interest-free loan will be sought, repayable over five years. - Charity Objectives: It is essential to remember that the club operates as a charity, not for profit/surplus. It focuses on two main objectives: 1. The promotion of community participation through the provision of cricket facilities: 2. The promotion of amateur cricket through coaching and development opportunities: Generating a surplus is integral to achieving these objectives, as it provides the financial stability needed to reinvest in both infrastructure and programs. By operating in a financially sound manner, we can sustain and improve our offerings, ensuring that we continue to meet the community’s needs and contribute to the longterm development of cricket. In this way, generating a surplus and pursuing the clubs’ charitable aims work in tandem to reinforce each other, enabling the club to expand its impact year after year. Arthur Bibbey, Honorary Treasurer 17 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 **----- Start of picture text -----**
BELBROUGHTON CRICKET CLUB
Income for the year ended 30 September 2024
30 September 2024 30 September 2023 Variance
£ £ £ £ £ £
Subscriptions
Senior Players 3,493 3,440 53
Junior Players 12,895 9,630 3,265
Non-Playing Members 1,532 1,570 (38)
Ground Fund 5,381 4,833 547
23,300 19,473 3,826
Fund Raising
Wicket Wall 150 0 150
BBQ's, Catering etc 2,071 3,647 (1,576)
Prize Giving / Christmas Party 585 765 (180)
Golf Day 0 574 (574)
100 Club 400 1,325 (925)
Scarecrow Parking 750 7,000 (6,250)
Scarecrow Weekend Events 456 892 (436)
Hicky's Gold Rush 0 85 (85)
Strollers Beer & Balti 70 110 (40)
Vintage Car Rally 2,004 741 1,262
Quiz Nights 571 466 105
Ben Cox Testimonial 0 (926) 926
Beer Festival 3,800 0 3,800
Skittles Night 320 0 320
Club 6-a-side 288 116 172
Donated Clothing Sales 0 20 (20)
Fantasy Football, Cricket & Sweep 100 51 49
11,564 14,865 (3,301)
Bar Sales
Sales 41,832 42,610 (778)
Purchases (22,431) (24,272) 1,841
19,401 46.4% 18,339 43.0% 1,063
Card Machine Charges (1,722) (1,098) (624)
17,680 17,241 439
Miscellaneous
Advertising & Sponsorship 3,660 2,928 732
Donations Received 1,026 200 826
Grants Amortised 6,849 8,413 (1,564)
11,535 11,541 (6)
Investment Income
Building Society & Bank Interest 734 433 301
Halifax Share Dividend/Redemption 426 26 400
Corporation Tax 4,047 0 4,047
5,206 459 4,748
69,286 63,580 5,706
Expenditure (51,689) (50,896) (793)
17,598 12,684 4,913
Surplus on disposal of Fixed Assets 1,096 0
Depreciation of Fixed Assets (11,814) (11,092) (722)
Surplus / (Deficit) for the year 6,880 1,593 5,287
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18 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 **----- Start of picture text -----**
BELBROUGHTON CRICKET CLUB
Expenditure for the year ended 30 September 2024
30 September 2024 30 September 2023 Variance
£ £ £ £
Ground Expenses
Loam, fertiliser & seed 1,509 1,214 (294)
Repairs & upkeep 5,863 4,378 (1,485)
Mowing & preparation of wicket 4,616 5,173 557
Petrol & oil 581 687 106
12,569 11,452 (1,116)
Playing Expenses
Umpires & Scorer 651 659 8
Balls & equipment 3,690 2,527 (1,163)
Overseas Player costs 780 500 (280)
Hire of nets 1,035 1,093 58
Rent of 3rd XI Ground 840 850 10
Subscriptions & entrance fees 1,170 987 (183)
Coaching 8,690 10,927 2,237
16,856 17,544 688
Pavilion Expenses
Heating & lighting 5,636 2,186 (3,450)
Insurance 5,638 4,621 (1,018)
TV Licence 166 159 (7)
Upkeep & repairs 5,133 9,946 4,812
16,574 16,911 338
Miscellaneous
Water rates & Refuse Collection 1,270 1,103 (166)
Printing, postage & stationery 193 814 621
Telephone 359 480 121
Accountancy Services 300 300 0
Donations & presentations 890 90 (800)
Lottery Licence 90 16 (74)
Legal & Professional Fees 59 749 690
Bank Charges 421 356 (65)
IT Costs & Subscriptions 1,011 310 (702)
First Aid/Safeguarding Courses 35 174 139
Captains Board, Trophies & Engraving 1,063 598 (465)
5,691 4,989 (702)
Expenditure 51,689 50,896 (793)
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19 | P a g e Registered Charity Number: 1198698 **----- Start of picture text -----**
BELBROUGHTON CRICKET CLUB
Notes to the accounts for the year ended 30 September 2024
1. Fixed Assets Balance Additions Depreciation Depreciation Balance
1 October during for the period on Disposals 30 September
2023 the year @ 5% @ 20 % 2024
£ £ £ £ £ £
Buildings 50,886 5,846 (2,690) 0 0 54,041
Implement shed 80 0 0 (16) 0 64
Furniture & equipment 2,879 0 0 (576) 0 2,303
Kitchen & bar equipment 7,785 1,778 0 (1,731) 0 7,832
Mowers 6,072 2,300 0 (1,483) 0 6,889
Ground & equipment 10,023 1,919 0 (2,194) 0 9,748
Seats & tables 536 0 0 (107) 0 429
Playing equipment 14,896 749 0 (3,017) 0 12,628
93,157 12,591 (2,690) (9,123) 0 93,934
Events after the reporting period
After the end of the financial year, the club has committed to purchase a new power roller at a cost of £16,920.
BELBROUGHTON CRICKET CLUB
Balance Sheet as at 30 September 2024
30 September 2024 30 September 2023
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible 93,934 93,157
Investments 0 0
93,934 93,157
CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks 2,819 3,201
Debtors 9,817 10,253
Bank - Current Account 4,071 3,337
Bank - Reserve Account 35,436 35,702
52,143 52,494
TOTAL ASSETS 146,078 145,651
Less
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Creditors (4,951) (5,674)
Grants (27,922) (33,653)
NET ASSETS 113,204 106,324
Financed by:-
ACCUMULATED FUNDS
Opening Balance 106,324 104,732
Surplus / (Deficit) for year 6,880 1,592
113,204 106,324
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