Bridgetown Cricket Club celebrated its centenary season in style on Saturday July 13 with a dinner and dance at the Coopers Associates County Ground, Taunton.  

Somerset, England and Test Match Special legend, Vic Marks was the guest of honour and in his address to the 130-strong Bridgetown faithful, he entertained his audience with fond stories and anecdotes of the cricketing folk he had come across through his career as a cricketer and broadcaster. 

In addition, guests were treated to an energetic set from soul-funk band, Disco Cactus and an Auction of Prizes & Promises,, hosted by freelance journalist and commentator Harry Everett, which raised over £5000 for the club’s Centenary Pavilion project. 

Bridgetown’s Centenary Pavilion plan involves extending the existing pavilion backwards to incorporate a larger changing facility, toilets and showers, while keeping its original thatched-roof façade unchanged. Traditional habits of occasionally changing on the ground, using the out-the-back ‘dunny’ and washing in the nearby river will become a thing of the past! Well, maybe.. 

In order to raise the estimated £60,000 required for the renovation, the club used its Centenary celebrations as the launchpad for a sustained fundraising strategy comprising grants, crowd funding, sponsorship, and other donations of time, materials and money.

Founded by Roy Nesfield in 1924, Bridgetown has a rich history built on a tight-knit community of players and friends alongside the enduring efforts of a handful of committed people, such as Club Presidents -past and present - Doug Sherring and John Reed, Jacky and Kenny Cross, Miles Richards and William Ladds.  William steps down from his position of Chairman this summer (only the second in Bridgetown’s history) to hand over the reins to Miles, who is entrusted with leading the club into its second century.

Earlier in the week, the club hosted a Golf Day at Minehead and West Somerset Golf Club and two commemorative fixtures: an invitation West Somerset League XI and the other with their historic opponents, Somerset Stragglers. 

For these, the club’s iconic ground was in immaculate condition, and spectators flocked from near and far to enjoy the hospitality and memorabilia on display in the marquee. 

Both matches were played in excellent spirit, reflecting the warmth and camaraderie which exists across the county for grass roots cricket. 

A family day of cricket and BBQ was a fitting finale to an excellent week, and the Centenary Committee wishes to thank all who played their part in supporting Bridgetown’s 100 not out!

To stay abreast of developments and to support the club as it moves forward, the club keenly encourages people to visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/bridgetown-cricket-club---clubhouse-extension, follow our Facebook page  https://www.facebook.com/groups/487419336500702, or contact our incoming Chairman, Miles Richards [email protected].