This year sees Shefford Town Cricket Club celebrating its 50th year. Although the first game was not played until 1948 the decision to form the Club was made in the Autumn of 1947, when schoolteacher Ron Davis, believed to be to be the founder of the Club, with other local men arranged a few fixtures for the following year. But first a pitch had to be prepared. The playing area was professionally laid.
The early seasons saw the playing strip run in the opposite direction to what it does today, but this was changed as the setting sun often dazzled the batsmen.
The Club went from strength to strength, but in the mid-sixties the first generation of players were retiring from the game and the Club struggled for players. Jack Guthrie, one of the original team members, took it upon himself to persuade a number of local sportsmen to join the Club. With the help of long serving Chairman Bob Johns and pub landlord Ralph "Bunny" Rockall the Club flourished again, and there was an enviable social side too.
There followed a number of successful seasons until once again the majority of players began to wind down their playing days. The Club struggled for some time, both financially and playing numbers but, the Club refused to die!
Now, following the expansion of Shefford, and an encouraging interest from a number of younger players the future of the Club looks assured.
On 4th July, a celebration evening is being held at the Shefford Town Memorial Hall. It is hoped that many past and present players, friends and former opponents will attend. Light entertainment and a buffet will be provided. Tickets will be on sale from early June. For further information, call Ray Haxton on (01462) 812174.