Uplyme and Lyme Regis Cricket Club Marks 140 Years of Community Cricket Spirit

Uplyme and Lyme Regis Cricket Club (ULRCC) recently marked a massive milestone, celebrating its 140th anniversary with a special event at the King George VI Playing Field this past Sunday. The celebration drew over a hundred current and former players, members, and guests, with some ex-players even traveling from far-off places like Tasmania to be part of the historic occasion. Organized by chairman Gary Edginton, the day was filled with a friendly cricket match, heartfelt speeches, and the unveiling of new honours boards to acknowledge the club's rich history and outstanding individual achievements. The event wasn't just about looking back; it highlighted the ongoing spirit of village cricket in the region, a commitment especially important as the club faced a recruitment drive earlier in the year to ensure its future in the Devon Cricket League. The rediscovery and digitalization of club records and scorebooks from the 1970s onwards played a key role in making the anniversary meaningful, helping to recall legendary performances. These included batsman Mike Denham century at Lord's Cricket Ground in 1986, Jon Whetlor record-setting 190 runs in 1998, and exceptional bowling feats by Mark Colley and Andrew Harrison. Former chairmen Andy Mason and Philip Evans also shared personal stories, emphasizing the deep friendships fostered through the club. Looking ahead, the ULRCC aims to build on this legacy, encouraging new talent and continuing its participation in local competitions like the Devon Cricket League Division C East and T20 Bash events, despite a challenging start to its T20 campaign this season. The anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of the club's enduring role in the community and its commitment to keeping the game alive for future generations at the King George VI Playing Field.