Carlton to mark a century and a half

Published on 14th August 2008 in Ents

Carlton Towers Cricket Club may have suffered indifferent form in the first half of their 150th year of existence, but to mark their anniversary they seem to be running into form and their celebration on Sunday, August 24 should be the happy event it is meant to be.

The club was formed in 1858. Initially named as Carlton Cricket Club, its purpose was to provide a recreation for the farmers and other men who worked for and on the Estate.

Initially, the club played its matches in the grounds of the Towers before moving to its present spot at the opposite side of the village at the end of the 19th century.

Having competed in a number of leagues, including the Snaith Cricket League, West Riding Cricket League, Yorkshire Council - Pontefract Section and currently the Hunters York and District Senior and HPH York Vale Leagues, the club provides cricket for three Saturday, Evening League, Under 15 and Under 13 teams.

A period of 150 years cannot be underestimated or overstated.

Throughout these years there have been successes and failures, hibernation and resurrection and, more importantly friendships, unity and companionships that have known no boundaries.

The club are to recognise the contributions that have been made and remember absent friends who sadly will not be there in person, but in spirit, and who helped to build the foundations upon which Carlton Towers Cricket club is based and are the reason why it has survived and why it will continue to do so.

The event is being organised to celebrate this milestone and to recognise the contributions of all members both past, present and those involved in the future of the club.

There is to be a cricket match between a Carlton Towers Select XI and an ex-Carlton Towers Players Invitation XI, starting at 2pm. It will comprise 20 overs per side.

The Carlton Towers Select XI will include current Club players and will be captained by club captain Jamie Pocklington.

The Invitation XI has been kindly selected by former club captain Phil Day and will feature Stuart Coleman, Kevin Waites and others.

Refreshments will be provided and available for sale on the day, including the use of the barbecue.

In particular there will be entertainment provided including Junior Disco - 7 pm until 9pm, and an adult Disco - 9pm until 11 pm.

The club marquee will be erected and the bar will be open from 12 noon until 11 pm.