20th May 2010
Chance to Shine - 5th Anniversary Celebrations
As many of you are no doubt aware, Jay and I yesterday went to meet the people from Chance to shine. It was actually better than that as we were invited to the celebration of their 5th anniversary. Mark Nicholas and Mervyn King gave speeches (+ 2 others who I cannot remember) and what struck me was that 1 million children in state schools have now gone through their training programme - and that means they have to have participated in at least 5 competitive games.
Whilst there, Jay and I presented the cheque for £1,000 to Wasim Khan from last year's activities. They were most grateful for it and it is the first money that they have received for their new initiative 'Step up to the crease'.
When we told them about the face painting at Walton they all said that this was exactly the type of thing that is great to hear. They would love to see us fielding a team who are all wearing WG Grace beards to support this initiative, so expect this to happen at one of our fixtures this season.
Whilst there I did my best to find a replacement opening bowler for Tissues who is sadly getting a bit past it. This is the guy I have lined up.
The people at Cts were really enthusiastic about what we are doing and I would like to extend their thanks, and the Committee's, to everyone of you who contributed last year in any way be it financially, playing in matches, supporting us at games, or anything else. Without you we couldn't do this and raise money for such a worthwhile cause.
As we approach our first fixture of the season at Walton a week tomorrow, I, and the Committee, would like to wish everyone the best for a successful season for both the Exiles and their local clubs should they be playing for one. Let's go out, have fun and raise money for Chance to Shine
Thank you again from the Committee.
Basil
Secretary - TMSB Exiles CC
More information about Chance to Shine and this event is available here