Big summer ahead for Lewes Priory cricketers

Activity in the nets at Lewes Priory during the last break between lockdowns

With three Saturday teams, a Priory Ruins Sunday team and matches for the girls’ and women’s teams, Lewes Priory have started training sessions now that the lockdown ban on sport has been lifted.

And players throughout the club are looking forward to an extensive list of summer fixtures – hopefully in summer weather.

The juniors will be fielding eight teams for children of all ages, from five upwards, and many have already taken part in a highly successful Easter camp – with a summer one to follow.

Senior practice takes place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, and most children’s groups meet on Fridays from 6pm. Newcomers are welcome at all sections of the club.

On Saturdays there is an 8am start as the Priory Ruins practice hard to bring their skills up to a better level – perhaps to the point where they can challenge the under-14s to a match this season! Returners and learners are always welcome to join them.

Women’s and girls’ training follows the Priory Ruins sessions.

The Lewes Priory CC grounds team have added new drainage and training areas, plus a whole new pitch area.

To cope with Covid restrictions the scorebox is now doubling up as an after-match bar, with a barbecue and firepit for added comfort.

And a new statement of intent has been drawn up which makes the club’s hopes and aims clear: “To be a thriving, welcoming and sociable club that offers competitive, developmental and social cricket to men, women, girls and boys of all backgrounds, levels of skill and experience, in a safe, family-friendly environment, regardless of their ability to pay.”

* Do any readers know the first name of AC Cruttenden, who played cricket for Lewes Priory CC in the 1930s and possibly later? If so, please contact Phil Dennett on 01444 245466 or philipjdennett@hotmail, who is writing a book on former Sussex cricketer and Brighton footballer Tommy Cook, against whom AC Cruttenden played in a Lewes Priory team.

Phil said: “I would like to mention Mr Cruttenden’s first name or names.”