On May 19th of this year, the sun thankfully decided to make an appearance, casting its rays over the Coronation Garden at Lord’s, warming the bones of the many people who congregated there. Those people were in attendance as they were all members of MaSPA, having once represented Middlesex County Cricket Club or Sunrisers, or had a professional contract with either team. People aged 18 – 80 socialised and discussed the game they love, rekindling old friendships and forging new bonds with fellow enthusiasts. From start to finish, the event was an unforgettable experience that blended the excitement of cricket with the warmth of community, making it a resounding success.
Welcome drinks and canapés were on offer on arrival, before the main gastronomic event was unveiled; a truly magnificent lunch, laid on courtesy of Denise Fraser. Linda and Jess, her very able co-workers, were on hand to help the guests enjoy everything from dips and crudités to a beautifully poached salmon and tricolore salad. There were options to suit every palate, and the quality and taste of the food were exceptional.
Once lunch was finished, several of the players were honoured with a commemorative cap, crafted from beautiful navy-blue velvet with a white thread embellishment. These were very well received and handed out by two club legends, Mike Gatting and Mark Ramprakash. The awards were compered as ever by the inimitable Angus Fraser, precariously perching on a bench throughout.
Thereafter, guests were free to enjoy the game that was underway, a County Championship game against Somerset, from any of the viewing points that our magnificent home ground affords.
During the tea interval, Angus yet again stepped up to the compere’s microphone and delivered a touching and emotional tribute to two of the Club’s greats, Alan Moss and JT Murray. Two memorial benches were unveiled in their honour and the families of the two recipients were clearly grateful and moved by the occasion.
Eventually, light and overs ran out and the day came to a close. On reflection, what was evident on the day was the sense of community the event fostered. People from various walks of life were brought together through a common passion for the sport. Conversations flowed effortlessly, friendships were formed, and the day was filled with laughter and shared memories. It was a reminder of the unifying power of cricket to bring people together. This won’t be the last social event that MaSPA organises - the next one is already on the drawing board but if anybody has any ideas they wish to put forward, please do get in touch with [email protected].
CONTACT DETAILS
If you have any comments on the content of this newsletter, or any ideas or issues you wish MaSPA to be aware of, please get in touch using the following email address: [email protected].
