The Friends of Grace Road have donated £12,000 to the Club. The presentation was made at a the first of the Friends Winter luches. The guest speakers were ex-Leicestershire Players David Millns and Ben Smith.
This was the third successive donation of £12,000 that the Friends of Grace Road have made to the Club, who issued the following:
Leicestershire County Cricket Club are delighted to receive another generous donation of £12,000 from The Friends of Grace Road (FoGR).
It is the third season in succession that the FoGR have raised that amount of money and it will be used for the critical purchase of three pieces of equipment to keep the Fischer County Ground in top order. The donation will pay for a ride-on outfield mower, a wicket mower for the outdoor nets and a scarifier that will be used on both the square and outdoor nets.
The Friends of Grace Road sold teas, coffees and their legendary homemade cakes at home matches during the 2016 season, ran a raffle during NatWest T20 Blast games, and also help in the organisation of key off-field events.
These include the FoGR Winter Lunches and the 2016-17 programme opened today with a visit from two of Leicestershire’s 1996 and 1998 County Championship winning teams, David Millns and Ben Smith. The FoGR will also host their second annual quiz towards the end of the month.
Wasim Khan MBE, Chief Executive of Leicestershire CCC, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the amount that has been raised through the endeavours of the Friends of Grace Road. The club remains hugely grateful for the ongoing hard work and commitment of the FoGR, and for the annual donations that are made to the club.
“This donation will help to replace three pieces of vital kit for the groundstaff, whose dedication and diligence ensures that the Fischer County Ground and our outdoor nets are in excellent condition for both play and practice.”
Roy Bent, Chairman of Friends of Grace Road, said: “I am pleased to report that 2015-16 has been another very successful and profitable year for the Friends of Grace Road and we appear to be well-placed with a rising number of volunteers, fantastic support from members and spectators alike and efficient organisation to continue our fundraising efforts in 2016-17.
“Consequently, I have great pleasure in announcing that the FoGR again wish to donate £12,000, the third consecutive year that we have managed to contribute this amount to support Leicestershire County Cricket Club.
“The Friends programme of events during the winter continues with the very enjoyable FoGR Winter Lunches on Friday 3rd February 2017 and Friday 3rd March 2017 and the 2nd Annual FoGR Quiz Night which should provide a very enjoyable evening on Friday 25th November. We want to encourage as many teams as possible to enter with entry costing just £20, including a hot buffet for all four players.”
Please contact the club if you can offer help to the FoGR or you want to attend any of the above events. All enquiries can be made to 0116 283 2128 or by emailing enquiries@leicestershireccc.co.uk
Leicestershire County Cricket Club are delighted to receive another generous donation of £12,000 from The Friends of Grace Road (FoGR).
It is the third season in succession that the FoGR have raised that amount of money and it will be used for the critical purchase of three pieces of equipment to keep the Fischer County Ground in top order. The donation will pay for a ride-on outfield mower, a wicket mower for the outdoor nets and a scarifier that will be used on both the square and outdoor nets.
The Friends of Grace Road sold teas, coffees and their legendary homemade cakes at home matches during the 2016 season, ran a raffle during NatWest T20 Blast games, and also help in the organisation of key off-field events.
These include the FoGR Winter Lunches and the 2016-17 programme opened today with a visit from two of Leicestershire’s 1996 and 1998 County Championship winning teams, David Millns and Ben Smith. The FoGR will also host their second annual quiz towards the end of the month.
Wasim Khan MBE, Chief Executive of Leicestershire CCC, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the amount that has been raised through the endeavours of the Friends of Grace Road. The club remains hugely grateful for the ongoing hard work and commitment of the FoGR, and for the annual donations that are made to the club.
“This donation will help to replace three pieces of vital kit for the groundstaff, whose dedication and diligence ensures that the Fischer County Ground and our outdoor nets are in excellent condition for both play and practice.”
Roy Bent, Chairman of Friends of Grace Road, said: “I am pleased to report that 2015-16 has been another very successful and profitable year for the Friends of Grace Road and we appear to be well-placed with a rising number of volunteers, fantastic support from members and spectators alike and efficient organisation to continue our fundraising efforts in 2016-17.
“Consequently, I have great pleasure in announcing that the FoGR again wish to donate £12,000, the third consecutive year that we have managed to contribute this amount to support Leicestershire County Cricket Club.
“The Friends programme of events during the winter continues with the very enjoyable FoGR Winter Lunches on Friday 3rd February 2017 and Friday 3rd March 2017 and the 2nd Annual FoGR Quiz Night which should provide a very enjoyable evening on Friday 25th November. We want to encourage as many teams as possible to enter with entry costing just £20, including a hot buffet for all four players.”
Please contact the club if you can offer help to the FoGR or you want to attend any of the above events. All enquiries can be made to 0116 283 2128 or by emailing enquiries@leicestershireccc.co.uk
Cropston Cricket Club retained the Pat Ball Shield at the 2nd Annual Friends of Grace Road Quiz Night on Friday evening.
A total of 25 teams competed for the trophy, which is named in memory of dear friend and colleague Pat Ball, who sadly passed away last year. Pat served and supported the County with her husband, Hugh, over many years and was a true Friend of Grace Road.
The quiz was a fantastic assortment of questions covering general knowledge, a picture round, a music round, and some questions on the table. There was something for everyone and many thanks to Roger and Rosemary Stead for their hard work in compiling and delivering such an excellent quiz.
Cropston Cricket Club came out on top for a second year in succession with another good quizzing performance, being the only team to get over 200 points.
The Friends of Grace Road raffle was also held with a prize of £60 and everybody thoroughly enjoyed the evening. Watch this space for details of the 3rd Annual Friends of Grace Road Quiz Night!
Please note that the next lunch of the FoGR Winter Programme will be held on Friday 3rd February 2017 with former Leicestershire player Barry Dudleston as the special guest speaker. The Members Christmas Lunch is also taking place on Sunday 11th December.
To reserve your place, please call 0116 283 2128 or email events@leicestershireccc.co.uk.
Thanks to Dan Nice, of Leicestershire CCC for the photo and the text above.
Donation of £12,000 to the Club
Friends of Grace Road 2016 Quiz
There was another good turnout on Friday March 4th for the last of the Friends of Grace Road Winter Lunches before the start of the new season.
Over 60 cricket fans and Club supporters enjoyed a three-course lunch followed by a question and answer session with Club cricket staff.
John Sadler, recently appointed Second XI Coach, Andy Siddall, Academy Director, players James Sykes, Harry Dearden and Will Fazakerley faced some probing questions on their views on a variety of topics, including hiring of 'loan' players from other counties, hopes for the coming season and their choice of last meal!
“It was another very successful and enjoyable lunch,” said Friends of Grace Road Chairman, Roy Bent. “We have welcomed cricket speakers from across the eras during this winter – David Millns, Ben Smith, Barry Dudleston, and heard their stories and views on the current game. We'd like to thank them all for their time and of course, wish our present squad all the best for 2017.”
Friends of Grace Road is the supporters' organisation for Leicestershire County Cricket Club – raising funds by selling hot drinks and home-made cakes from 'The Meet' on match days in addition to running raffles and other events.
Over 60 cricket fans and Club supporters enjoyed a three-course lunch followed by a question and answer session with Club cricket staff.
John Sadler, recently appointed Second XI Coach, Andy Siddall, Academy Director, players James Sykes, Harry Dearden and Will Fazakerley faced some probing questions on their views on a variety of topics, including hiring of 'loan' players from other counties, hopes for the coming season and their choice of last meal!
“It was another very successful and enjoyable lunch,” said Friends of Grace Road Chairman, Roy Bent. “We have welcomed cricket speakers from across the eras during this winter – David Millns, Ben Smith, Barry Dudleston, and heard their stories and views on the current game. We'd like to thank them all for their time and of course, wish our present squad all the best for 2017.”
Friends of Grace Road is the supporters' organisation for Leicestershire County Cricket Club – raising funds by selling hot drinks and home-made cakes from 'The Meet' on match days in addition to running raffles and other events.
During the interval on the Sunday of the Glamorgan game, the Friends of Grace Road presented a piece of stained glassware depicting the Glamorgan emblem to Andrew Hignell, the Glamorgan Scorer, Archivist and Museum Curator, on the field.
The glassware was made by Keith McAree from Hinckley, who donated it to the FoGR. The presentation was made to Glamorgan as a token of the lasting and friendly relationship between the players and supporters of the two counties.
The glassware was made by Keith McAree from Hinckley, who donated it to the FoGR. The presentation was made to Glamorgan as a token of the lasting and friendly relationship between the players and supporters of the two counties.
Presentation to Glamorgan
The Friends of Grace Road held their usual 50/50 raffle during the rain affected game vesus Notts.
The winner of the fantastic prize of £409 was Mark Burrows, who is from close by in Aylestone and is a regular visitor to T20 matches.
Mark is shown above receiving his winnings from Leicestershire County Cricket Club CEO, Wasim Khan.
The winner of the fantastic prize of £409 was Mark Burrows, who is from close by in Aylestone and is a regular visitor to T20 matches.
Mark is shown above receiving his winnings from Leicestershire County Cricket Club CEO, Wasim Khan.
Another Winner: Over £400 this time
Friends of Grace Road 50/50 raffle
The Friends of Grace Road had record takings during the NatWest T20 Blast game against Lancashire Lightning on Friday evening.
The FoGR sold £1,075 worth of raffle tickets - and so the maximum prize of £500 was paid to the winner!
From the photo above, it appears that the prize was won by several people. In fact our winner, Stephen Ward of Fleckney, unfortunately had to leave the ground before the draw was made. He left his tickets with his workmates from Pukka Pies who were enjoying a night at the cricket.
Stephen’s prize was claimed by his friend, Phil Smith. Phil and the Pukka Pies team were photographed receiving the £500 cheque from Ned Eckersley. Many congratulations to Stephen!
The FoGR would like to thank everyone for their continued support of the raffle, which returns on Saturday against Yorkshire Vikings.
Thanks to all who helped and to Ed Melia for the photograph.
The FoGR sold £1,075 worth of raffle tickets - and so the maximum prize of £500 was paid to the winner!
From the photo above, it appears that the prize was won by several people. In fact our winner, Stephen Ward of Fleckney, unfortunately had to leave the ground before the draw was made. He left his tickets with his workmates from Pukka Pies who were enjoying a night at the cricket.
Stephen’s prize was claimed by his friend, Phil Smith. Phil and the Pukka Pies team were photographed receiving the £500 cheque from Ned Eckersley. Many congratulations to Stephen!
The FoGR would like to thank everyone for their continued support of the raffle, which returns on Saturday against Yorkshire Vikings.
Thanks to all who helped and to Ed Melia for the photograph.
Biggest Ever Raffle Winner: £500
Another raffle with record takings. This time we sold £1,205 worth of raffle tickets and so the maximum prize of £500 was paid to the winner.
The lucky winner was Jim Roberts from Sutton-in-the-Elms near to Broughton Astley. Jim has been a member of the Club since 1996 and visits the ground as often as he can. Jim celebrated his 70th Birthday a week early by scooping the £500 prize, the cheque for which was presented by Tom Wells. Many congratulations to Jim!
Congratulations to the County team, who also won the T20 game against Yorkshire.
Thanks to Neville Chadwick for the photo
A WIN and a WIN
The lucky winner this time was Grant Williamson who makes beer cans for Crown Bevcan UK at Braunstone in Leicester, but is actually from Carlisle. Grant is a keen follower of cricket and visits Test matches whenever he can, but this was – you’ve guessed it – his first ever visit to Grace Road. So, many congratulations to Grant for scooping the £500 prize. The cheque was presented to Grant by Callum Parkinson.
Yet Another £500 Winner
The Friends of Grace Road had a successful launch of the 50/50 raffle during the NatWest T20 Blast game against Northants Steelbacks – and there was a nice story of the winner at the Birmingham Bears fixture.
Leicestershire's first winner of £357 was Dave Ward of Shepshed, a regular visitor to the Fischer County Ground that has been a member for the last three years. Dave was presented with the cheque by Foxes seamer Gavin Griffiths, below left.
The second winner, against Birmingham Bears, was Chris Shaw, below on the right, who scooped £310 presented by Leicestershire spinner Callum Parkinson.
Chris, from the Narborough Road area of Leicester, first visited the ground in 1967 and has been a regular visitor ever since.
In 1975, Leicestershire CCC produced plates and bottles of wine to commemorate their first County Championship title.
Chris bought one of the bottles of wine and still has it today. Then before last night’s game, he offered to donate this wine to the club as part of its history - and later in the evening, he won the FoGR 50/50 Raffle.
The FoGR will run the 50/50 raffle at all home games, including the Durham Jets fixture on Friday night.
Thank you to everybody who brought a ticket on Friday - and please keep continuing to support the FoGR at future matches.
Leicestershire's first winner of £357 was Dave Ward of Shepshed, a regular visitor to the Fischer County Ground that has been a member for the last three years. Dave was presented with the cheque by Foxes seamer Gavin Griffiths, below left.
The second winner, against Birmingham Bears, was Chris Shaw, below on the right, who scooped £310 presented by Leicestershire spinner Callum Parkinson.
Chris, from the Narborough Road area of Leicester, first visited the ground in 1967 and has been a regular visitor ever since.
In 1975, Leicestershire CCC produced plates and bottles of wine to commemorate their first County Championship title.
Chris bought one of the bottles of wine and still has it today. Then before last night’s game, he offered to donate this wine to the club as part of its history - and later in the evening, he won the FoGR 50/50 Raffle.
The FoGR will run the 50/50 raffle at all home games, including the Durham Jets fixture on Friday night.
Thank you to everybody who brought a ticket on Friday - and please keep continuing to support the FoGR at future matches.
One of the Club’s long-serving members, James Elsden Spencer (“Jim”) sadly died on 15th May 2017 at the age of 72. Some fellow members of the Club went to his funeral last Friday and it was a privilege for all of us to be there as it was a true and fitting celebration of Jim’s life with his family.
Jim’s son, Craig, and his daughter, Clare, kindly requested all donations at the funeral to be given to the Friends of Grace Road and the FoGR would like to announce publicly our sincere thanks for this thoughtful and most generous of arrangements.
Jim’s son, Craig, and his daughter, Clare, kindly requested all donations at the funeral to be given to the Friends of Grace Road and the FoGR would like to announce publicly our sincere thanks for this thoughtful and most generous of arrangements.
Jim Spencer
The Friends of Grace Road will be running their 50/50 raffle throughout NatWest T20 Blast matches in 2017. Tickets cost just £1 and the winner scoops half of the takings on the night. You have to be in it to win it, so make sure you buy your ticket!
Our first winner, who took home £357, was Dave Ward of Shepshed shown here receiving his winnings from County paceman Gavin Griffiths.
Dave is a regular visitor to the FCG and has been a member for the last three years.
The play 'When the Eye has Gone", the story of Colin Milburn, was produced at the Fischer County Ground in November. It is returning to the East Midlands:
Critically acclaimed play about cricketer Colin Milburn comes to The East Midlands in March
Following a sell-out tour in November 2016, Dougie Blaxland’s critically acclaimed one man show When The Eye Has Gone is coming to The Derby Theatre as part of a UK National tour on 5th March 2017. Tickets are available from the box office on 01332 59 39 39.
When The Eye Has Gone tells the all too brief life of Colin “Ollie” Milburn - the cricketing legend who was one of England’s most unlikely sporting heroes. Full of anecdotes, a thumping soundtrack and a large gin and coke, the story swings backwards and forwards through Milburn’s life as he raises a glass to the triumphs, including his first Test Century against the West Indies at Lords in 1966 and the disasters, like losing his left eye in a car accident in 1969.
The extraordinary story of Colin Milburn has all the hallmarks of a Greek tragedy. In 1966 he became a household name, scoring a blistering century against the mighty West Indies in only his second test. He then caused a major sensation playing for Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield smashing 243 against Queensland at Brisbane in an innings described by Don Bradman as “the greatest innings played by an Englishman on Australian soil”. This was quickly followed by another glorious century for England against Pakistan in Lahore.
Just a few weeks later, on his triumphant return to England, he lost his left eye in a car crash in Northampton, an injury that effectively ended his career and life prospects. His subsequent decline into alcoholism ended with his death from a heart attack at the age of 48. Ian Botham was one of the pall bearers.
Originally commissioned by The Professional Cricketers’ Association for Mind Matters, their mental health awareness programme, When The Eye Has Gone was written by the award-winning playwright Dougie Blaxland, nom de plume of James Graham-Brown, a former Derbyshire and Kent all-rounder and directed by Roughhouse Theatre.
The part of Colin Milburn is played by GSA graduate Dan Gaisford. Dan has worked extensively in TV, film and theatre and his recent credits include Clybourne Park (Mercury Theatre Colchester), Kidnapped (Brassworks Theatre) and Henry Walker and the Wheel of Death (Roughhouse Theatre).
Reviews for When The Eye Has Gone
“…brimming with charisma and honesty. Blaxland has skillfully worked Milburn’s life into an arresting parable.”
**** (4 Stars) THE STAGE
“…what makes Blaxland’s piece so compelling is that Milburn’s is a universal tale…(his) exuberance was brilliantly resurrected by Dan Gaisford.”
THE TELEGRAPH
“a mesmeric virtuoso performance which was every bit as gripping as one of Milburn’s swashbuckling innings.”
KENT ONLINE
“a tour de force”
BATH CHRONICLE
“Roughhouse Theatre has created a brilliant show whose boundaries extend well beyond the world of cricket."
BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE
Full tour details can be found here: www.roughhousetheatre.com/whentheeyehasgone
Critically acclaimed play about cricketer Colin Milburn comes to The East Midlands in March
Following a sell-out tour in November 2016, Dougie Blaxland’s critically acclaimed one man show When The Eye Has Gone is coming to The Derby Theatre as part of a UK National tour on 5th March 2017. Tickets are available from the box office on 01332 59 39 39.
When The Eye Has Gone tells the all too brief life of Colin “Ollie” Milburn - the cricketing legend who was one of England’s most unlikely sporting heroes. Full of anecdotes, a thumping soundtrack and a large gin and coke, the story swings backwards and forwards through Milburn’s life as he raises a glass to the triumphs, including his first Test Century against the West Indies at Lords in 1966 and the disasters, like losing his left eye in a car accident in 1969.
The extraordinary story of Colin Milburn has all the hallmarks of a Greek tragedy. In 1966 he became a household name, scoring a blistering century against the mighty West Indies in only his second test. He then caused a major sensation playing for Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield smashing 243 against Queensland at Brisbane in an innings described by Don Bradman as “the greatest innings played by an Englishman on Australian soil”. This was quickly followed by another glorious century for England against Pakistan in Lahore.
Just a few weeks later, on his triumphant return to England, he lost his left eye in a car crash in Northampton, an injury that effectively ended his career and life prospects. His subsequent decline into alcoholism ended with his death from a heart attack at the age of 48. Ian Botham was one of the pall bearers.
Originally commissioned by The Professional Cricketers’ Association for Mind Matters, their mental health awareness programme, When The Eye Has Gone was written by the award-winning playwright Dougie Blaxland, nom de plume of James Graham-Brown, a former Derbyshire and Kent all-rounder and directed by Roughhouse Theatre.
The part of Colin Milburn is played by GSA graduate Dan Gaisford. Dan has worked extensively in TV, film and theatre and his recent credits include Clybourne Park (Mercury Theatre Colchester), Kidnapped (Brassworks Theatre) and Henry Walker and the Wheel of Death (Roughhouse Theatre).
Reviews for When The Eye Has Gone
“…brimming with charisma and honesty. Blaxland has skillfully worked Milburn’s life into an arresting parable.”
**** (4 Stars) THE STAGE
“…what makes Blaxland’s piece so compelling is that Milburn’s is a universal tale…(his) exuberance was brilliantly resurrected by Dan Gaisford.”
THE TELEGRAPH
“a mesmeric virtuoso performance which was every bit as gripping as one of Milburn’s swashbuckling innings.”
KENT ONLINE
“a tour de force”
BATH CHRONICLE
“Roughhouse Theatre has created a brilliant show whose boundaries extend well beyond the world of cricket."
BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE
Full tour details can be found here: www.roughhousetheatre.com/whentheeyehasgone
"When the Eye has Gone" at Derby Theatre
2ND ANNUAL
FoGR QUIZ
Challenge Cropston Cricket Club’s bid to retain
the FoGR Quiz Trophy
Friday 25th November 2016
at Charles Palmer Suite, Leicestershire CCCC,
Grace Road, Leicester
* Exciting new format of general knowledge Quiz
with questions to suit all ages and interests *
* Teams of up to 4 people welcome to participate *
* Entry £20 per Team, includes hot buffet *
* Quiz Teams will include LCCC Players & Coaches, LCCC Staff, FoGR Volunteers, Leicestershire Cricket Society & Local Sports Clubs *
* Spectators welcome to attend – Admission £1*
* Bar open from 6:30pm, Quiz starts 7:15pm *
* All proceeds to the Friends of Grace Road *
If you wish to enter a Team, please contact Mel Squires on 0116 283 2128 or email via melaniesquires@leicestershireccc.co.uk
Leicestershire County Cricket Club are now taking bookings for the final two Friends of Grace Road lunches of the winrer programme.
The second of the FoGR winter lunches will take place on Friday, February 3, where former Leicestershire CCC cricketer and first-class umpire Barry Dudleston is our special guest speaker.
Dudleston was part of one of the most successful Leicestershire CCC sides in history during his 15-year career at Grace Road, scoring an impressive 12,483 first-class runs at an average of 31.68 including 27 centuries.
On the menu is a Smoked Salmon Parfait, Supreme of Chicken Tosca and Baked Alaska, while coffee and Red Fox Mints will be served following the meal.
Leicestershire CCC’s build-up to the 2017 season will be the focus of the third and final FoGR winter lunch on Friday, March 3.
The lunches will be served in the Charles Palmer Suite at 12.30pm with the Fox Bar open for refreshments from 12 noon.
Our delicious three-course lunches represent excellent value at £16.95 per person and places can be reserved by calling 0116 283 2128 or emailing events@leicestershireccc.co.uk
* Thanks to Neville Chadwick Photography for the photo, which features Barry. (Can you name the other players?)
* The above is reproduced from the Leicestershire county Cricket Club website: www.leicestershireccc.co.uk
The second of the FoGR winter lunches will take place on Friday, February 3, where former Leicestershire CCC cricketer and first-class umpire Barry Dudleston is our special guest speaker.
Dudleston was part of one of the most successful Leicestershire CCC sides in history during his 15-year career at Grace Road, scoring an impressive 12,483 first-class runs at an average of 31.68 including 27 centuries.
On the menu is a Smoked Salmon Parfait, Supreme of Chicken Tosca and Baked Alaska, while coffee and Red Fox Mints will be served following the meal.
Leicestershire CCC’s build-up to the 2017 season will be the focus of the third and final FoGR winter lunch on Friday, March 3.
The lunches will be served in the Charles Palmer Suite at 12.30pm with the Fox Bar open for refreshments from 12 noon.
Our delicious three-course lunches represent excellent value at £16.95 per person and places can be reserved by calling 0116 283 2128 or emailing events@leicestershireccc.co.uk
* Thanks to Neville Chadwick Photography for the photo, which features Barry. (Can you name the other players?)
* The above is reproduced from the Leicestershire county Cricket Club website: www.leicestershireccc.co.uk
Barry Dudleston to speak at Friends of Grace Road Lunch
Friends of Grace Road is the Leicestershire County Cricket Club supporters' group – a team of volunteers who bake and sell cakes on match days to raise money to funds for capital projects at Grace Road.
For full details and how to enter see our events page. Click / Tap the button below
Friends of Grace Road Quiz
Help: Bakers
Your name doesn't have to be 'Baker' but if you can bake a cake please help us.
You will be rewarded in a few ways. Your costs will be covered and you'll be invited to a party.
You will be rewarded in a few ways. Your costs will be covered and you'll be invited to a party.
Big Winners at T20 Blast
Five lucky folk at home T20 games walked away with cash in their pockets – when they won the Friends of Grace Road 50/ 50 raffle.
Total prize money of over £2,500 was given away – making this the most successful raffle season to date!
The Friends of Grace Road would like to thank everyone who bought a ticket and all the the tickets sellers who all did a great job in raising £2,500.
Howzat?
Some of the winners...
Total prize money of over £2,500 was given away – making this the most successful raffle season to date!
The Friends of Grace Road would like to thank everyone who bought a ticket and all the the tickets sellers who all did a great job in raising £2,500.
Howzat?
Some of the winners...
On one-day games, the Friends of Grace Road has a 50/50 raffle ---- where 50% of the day's ticket sales make the prize for the draw --- in cash -- on the day --- up to £500
Win BIG on 50/50
We are often asked 'Who picks the winning ticket?' Here's proof:
The winning ticket on June 24th was drawn by this young lady but we forgot to ask her name. If she would like to get in touch via the ‘Contact Us’ page on this website, some complimentary homemade cake from our café will be arranged. @Meet4cake
The winning ticket on June 24th was drawn by this young lady but we forgot to ask her name. If she would like to get in touch via the ‘Contact Us’ page on this website, some complimentary homemade cake from our café will be arranged. @Meet4cake
Wasim Khan and Roy Bent, Chairman of the Friends of Grace Road, on the Maurice Burrows Stand, after it's official opening on May 13th 2016.
The Friends donated £12,000 towards to refurbishment of the stand, regarded by many as the best view on the Ground.
Photo courtesy of Ed Melia @ed_photo
The Friends donated £12,000 towards to refurbishment of the stand, regarded by many as the best view on the Ground.
Photo courtesy of Ed Melia @ed_photo
Here are the raffle winners, Sally Simpson & Donna Neary with Leicestershire batsman Paul Horton. They were presented with the raffle winner's cheque for £430 last Saturday.
Sally was at the ground with sponsors Wasteline Services with her friend Donna who is
a Club member. They won the £430 through the winning ticket, 12096.
Thanks to all who purchased tickets and to all the ticket sellers. The profit from the raffle goes to the Friends of Grace Road and ultimately to the Club for specified purposes such as the recent refurbishment of the Maurice Burrows Stand.
Sally was at the ground with sponsors Wasteline Services with her friend Donna who is
a Club member. They won the £430 through the winning ticket, 12096.
Thanks to all who purchased tickets and to all the ticket sellers. The profit from the raffle goes to the Friends of Grace Road and ultimately to the Club for specified purposes such as the recent refurbishment of the Maurice Burrows Stand.
£390 was won by one person in the 50/50 Raffle during the T20 Blast game v Northants last Friday, May 20th.
The winning number 29056 and was bought by Mrs.S.J.Parker who is a Leicestershire CCC member and lives in Twyford.
The winning number 29056 and was bought by Mrs.S.J.Parker who is a Leicestershire CCC member and lives in Twyford.
Here are the Chairmen of the Friends of Grace Road and the Leicestershire County Cricket Club, Roy Bent and Paul Haywood respectively with the donation to the Club.
The Friends of Grace Road have donated the sum of £12,000 to the Club this year.
Here's what the Club had to say:
Friends of Grace Road make another generous donation
Leicestershire County Cricket Club is extremely grateful for another generous donation of £12,000 from The Friends of Grace Road. The monies raised will go towards the restoration of the Maurice Burrows Stand on top of the pavilion.
The Friends of Grace Road have again been selling teas, coffees and their wonderful homemade cakes at home matches and also ran a raffle at home games during NatWest T20 Blast games.
Their excellent work does not stop at the end of the season as the Friends of Grace Road are now busy with the winter lunch programme and will host their first annual quiz at the end of November.
It is a real success story for the Friends of Grace Road, who managed to keep running because a number of volunteers kindly offered their time to help.
Wasim Khan MBE, Chief Executive of Leicestershire and Rutland Cricket, said: “We are very thankful for the continued brilliant work and generosity of the Friends of Grace Road. The Friends of Grace Road do a lot of good work all year round, including the service they offer on matchdays.
“The club is extremely grateful for the donation, which will go towards improving the matchday experience for our Members. The Maurice Burrows Stand is an area we are looking to improve and we are pleased to be able to put the donation towards the renovation work. It will allow our Members a terrific view of Grace Road.”
Here's what the Club had to say:
Friends of Grace Road make another generous donation
Leicestershire County Cricket Club is extremely grateful for another generous donation of £12,000 from The Friends of Grace Road. The monies raised will go towards the restoration of the Maurice Burrows Stand on top of the pavilion.
The Friends of Grace Road have again been selling teas, coffees and their wonderful homemade cakes at home matches and also ran a raffle at home games during NatWest T20 Blast games.
Their excellent work does not stop at the end of the season as the Friends of Grace Road are now busy with the winter lunch programme and will host their first annual quiz at the end of November.
It is a real success story for the Friends of Grace Road, who managed to keep running because a number of volunteers kindly offered their time to help.
Wasim Khan MBE, Chief Executive of Leicestershire and Rutland Cricket, said: “We are very thankful for the continued brilliant work and generosity of the Friends of Grace Road. The Friends of Grace Road do a lot of good work all year round, including the service they offer on matchdays.
“The club is extremely grateful for the donation, which will go towards improving the matchday experience for our Members. The Maurice Burrows Stand is an area we are looking to improve and we are pleased to be able to put the donation towards the renovation work. It will allow our Members a terrific view of Grace Road.”
Interview with Wasim Khan
Wasim Khan has been interviewd by Richard Rae and it is to be found in the "The Crcket Paper"
Part of the interview is reproduced here
"The dressing rooms, including the infamous shower and bath, facilities have already been impressively revamped, a new science and medical centre -part funded by a five-figure donation from The Friends of Grace Road - is under construction, and come the third home game of the season, against Lancashire in mid-May, it is intended that members will be able to use a dedicated and newly roofed stand next to the pavilion".
Wasim Khan has been interviewd by Richard Rae and it is to be found in the "The Crcket Paper"
Part of the interview is reproduced here
"The dressing rooms, including the infamous shower and bath, facilities have already been impressively revamped, a new science and medical centre -part funded by a five-figure donation from The Friends of Grace Road - is under construction, and come the third home game of the season, against Lancashire in mid-May, it is intended that members will be able to use a dedicated and newly roofed stand next to the pavilion".
Pat Ball
It is with deep regret that we have to report that Pat Ball, a stalwart of the Friends of Grace Road has passed away.
The following is taken from the Club's website:
Patricia Ball Leicestershire County Cricket Club is extremely sad to learn of the news that Patricia Ball has passed away.
During her years as a member of Leicestershire Cricket Club, Patricia was joint head of the Friends of Grace Road shop alongside her husband who she leaves behind, Hugh.
Patricia raised an enormous amount of money for the club that she cared for so much. Patricia was loved by everyone up in the Meet, where she was always happy to serve all the customers and also make the cakes that were needed for the shop to be such a success.
When Patricia retired from the post a couple of years ago, she was awarded a lifetime membership by Leicestershire County Cricket Club as a thank you for her amazing service.
Leicestershire and Rutland Chief Executive Wasim Khan said: “We are extremely sad to hear that Patricia has passed away. I know she did a lot of work with the Friends of Grace Road and the club will always be thankful for her efforts over many years. We would like to offer our sincere condolences to Hugh.”
Patricia’s funeral is this Friday, June 12 at 11am at Loughborough Crematorium. Everybody is welcome, Patricia’s only stipulation is that you wear blue.
It is with deep regret that we have to report that Pat Ball, a stalwart of the Friends of Grace Road has passed away.
The following is taken from the Club's website:
Patricia Ball Leicestershire County Cricket Club is extremely sad to learn of the news that Patricia Ball has passed away.
During her years as a member of Leicestershire Cricket Club, Patricia was joint head of the Friends of Grace Road shop alongside her husband who she leaves behind, Hugh.
Patricia raised an enormous amount of money for the club that she cared for so much. Patricia was loved by everyone up in the Meet, where she was always happy to serve all the customers and also make the cakes that were needed for the shop to be such a success.
When Patricia retired from the post a couple of years ago, she was awarded a lifetime membership by Leicestershire County Cricket Club as a thank you for her amazing service.
Leicestershire and Rutland Chief Executive Wasim Khan said: “We are extremely sad to hear that Patricia has passed away. I know she did a lot of work with the Friends of Grace Road and the club will always be thankful for her efforts over many years. We would like to offer our sincere condolences to Hugh.”
Patricia’s funeral is this Friday, June 12 at 11am at Loughborough Crematorium. Everybody is welcome, Patricia’s only stipulation is that you wear blue.
Friends of Grace Road is a volunteer-run supporter group serving legendary home-made cakes and hot drinks to Members and visitors to Leicestershire County Cricket Ground.
Situated on the first floor of the 'iconic' Meet building (just off Cow Corner with a fabulous view of the Ground) the 'Friends' offer a warm welcome along with a mouth-watering selection of home-cooked goodies including, Victoria sponge, coffee and walnut, flapjacks and fruit cake.
All profits from the sale of cakes and merchandise are donated to the Club at the end of the season to enhance Members' enjoyment of cricket at the Ground.
Remember... no visit to Grace Road is complete without calling in to see 'the Friends'!
Christmas Cards
A snowy Grace Road scene painted by LCCC member, David Freer.
Packs of 10 - £5: A bargain
Available from Cricket Society meetings & FoGR Winter lunches.
To see what Grace Road looks like in the winter click / tap on the button here:
Packs of 10 - £5: A bargain
Available from Cricket Society meetings & FoGR Winter lunches.
To see what Grace Road looks like in the winter click / tap on the button here:
First Annual Friends of Grace Road Quiz
The Friends of Grace Road held their 1st Annual Quiz Night at the Charles Palmer Suite on Friday 27th November. As this was a new venture for the FoGR, they were so pleased to have 28 teams competing to be the first ever winners of the Pat Ball Shield, which is named in memory of their dear friend and colleague who sadly passed away earlier this year. Pat served and supported the County with her husband, Hugh, over many years and was a true Friend of Grace Road.
The Shield was won by Cropston Cricket Club who correctly answered 70 out of 80 questions on general knowledge; local knowledge and sport. They are pictured receiving the Shield from Colin Crosby, the Question Master for the evening. At the other end of the spectrum, Dumb, Dumber and Dave were awarded the wooden spoons with only 21 correct answers.
Many raffle ticket purchasers also went home happy with plenty of excellent prizes. Everyone present enjoyed the evening and there were many calls for the event to be repeated again in 2016.
Please note that the next FoGR Winter Lunch will be held on Friday 5th February 2016. Please reserve your place via Melanie Squires on 0116 283 2128 or email to melaniesquires@leicestershireccc.co.uk.
The Shield was won by Cropston Cricket Club who correctly answered 70 out of 80 questions on general knowledge; local knowledge and sport. They are pictured receiving the Shield from Colin Crosby, the Question Master for the evening. At the other end of the spectrum, Dumb, Dumber and Dave were awarded the wooden spoons with only 21 correct answers.
Many raffle ticket purchasers also went home happy with plenty of excellent prizes. Everyone present enjoyed the evening and there were many calls for the event to be repeated again in 2016.
Please note that the next FoGR Winter Lunch will be held on Friday 5th February 2016. Please reserve your place via Melanie Squires on 0116 283 2128 or email to melaniesquires@leicestershireccc.co.uk.
You may have seen that we are always asking for volunteers. We have a new “String to our Bow”, Joininuk.org. see here:
https://www.joininuk.org/club-profiles/friends-of-grace-road/profile/
or Tap / Click here:
https://www.joininuk.org/club-profiles/friends-of-grace-road/profile/
or Tap / Click here:
These are held throughout the autumn and winter. For full details Click / Tap here:
Friends of Grace Road
Winter Lunches
The speaker at the next Friends of Grace Road lunch on Friday Feb 5th will be Steve Walsh.
Steve played for Leicester City from 1986 to 2000 making 369 appearances and scoring 53 goals.
If you wish to attend please reserve your place via Melanie Squires on 0116 283 2128 or email to melaniesquires@leicestershireccc.co.uk.
Steve played for Leicester City from 1986 to 2000 making 369 appearances and scoring 53 goals.
If you wish to attend please reserve your place via Melanie Squires on 0116 283 2128 or email to melaniesquires@leicestershireccc.co.uk.
Steve Walsh is the Speaker at the next FoGR lunch
On Nov 27th. at Grace Road
Click / Tap here for details:
Click / Tap here for details:
NEW Café Opening Hours
The Friends of Grace Road serve tea, coffee and their famous home made cakes between 2.30pm and 4.30pm on the first 3 days of championship games. They are also available on one-day games at the same times.
For full details click / tap here:
For full details click / tap here:
The Cricket Paper published and interview with Wasim Khan by Ricard Rae. Part of the interview is here:
- The dressing rooms, including the infamous shower and bath, facilities have already been impressively revamped, a new science and medical centre -part funded by a five-figure donation from The Friends of Grace Road - is under construction, and come the third home game of the season, against Lancashire in mid-May, it is intended that members will be able to use a dedicated and newly roofed stand next to the pavilion.
- "There are a lot of bigger projects we're working on, but I felt it was very important to make immediate changes and improvements, because it's critical we move forward quickly increasing revenue in the short as well as long term." Khan explains. In that respect, he is hoping to announce the signing of a new ground sponsor, ideally before the start of the season. " There are a couple of national companies we're talking to, companies for whom the demographic in Leicester suits their products, and if we can secure a deal it will make a monumental difference enabling us to pump much more back into the playing budget. Then it becomes almost circular, because success on the field is attractive to potential sponsors."
- The club remains optimistic the hard-hitting, and almost as important these days, England-qualified Mark Cosgrove will sign to play both championship and T20 cricket.If so, Khan confirms, Cosgrove would almost certainly captain the club." There is a lot of enthusiasm on his side and ours to make it happen, but Mark's current contractual situation with South Australia is such that nothing can be made certain until next month, around March 20," said Khan.
- The club is also planning to make another overseas t20 signing." We're talking to very good players with a view to bringing in another top quality all-rounder......"
- Clint Mckay will not be available for the first game, at home to Glamorgan.
- " What I absolutely won't do, as a former player, is cross the line as far as the coaches are concerned, they have to have the freedom to do their jobs. But as every supporter knows, as I'm now finding out, it doesn't stop you living and breathing every moment." "
Friends of Grace Road Mentioned in Interview with
Wasim Khan
The prize of £350 was claimed by Rebecca Simpson, from Lutterworth. Rebecca has been a Leicestershire member for the last four years.
Here's Paul Haywood, the LCCC Chairman presenting the cheque to Rebecca.
Here's Paul Haywood, the LCCC Chairman presenting the cheque to Rebecca.
The prize of £350 was claimed by Rebecca Simpson, from Lutterworth. Rebecca has been a Leicestershire member for the last four years.
Here's Paul Haywood, the LCCC Chairman presenting the cheque to Rebecca.
Here's Paul Haywood, the LCCC Chairman presenting the cheque to Rebecca.
Raffle Prize Winner: July 10th
On Saturday, July 4th the prize of £450 was claimed by Donna Hill, from Catherine Street in Leicester. Donna is a devoted Leicester City supporter who was watching the cricket at Grace Road on her first ever visit to the ground. A profitable visit for Donna.
50/50 Raffle Prize Winners
Rob's the latest lucky winner!
Leicestershire supporter Rob Pressler had two reasons to celebrate at Friday’s thrilling game against Yorkshire Vikings.
Not only did Rob see the Foxes pick up a priceless point after Ben Raine claimed a wicket with the last ball, he also won the Friends of Grace Road 50/50 raffle.
The photo above shows the cheque being presented to Rob by Ellie of the LCCC staff.
Tickets are sold by the Friends of Grace Road during all NatWest T20 Blast fixtures at a cost of £1 per ticket, and the winner takes home half of the cash prize. That amounted to £340 on Friday evening.
Please continue to support the Friends of Grace Road 50/50 raffle, as all monies raised go to the club. The winning ticket is announced over the PA system and through social media during the game.
Leicestershire supporter Rob Pressler had two reasons to celebrate at Friday’s thrilling game against Yorkshire Vikings.
Not only did Rob see the Foxes pick up a priceless point after Ben Raine claimed a wicket with the last ball, he also won the Friends of Grace Road 50/50 raffle.
The photo above shows the cheque being presented to Rob by Ellie of the LCCC staff.
Tickets are sold by the Friends of Grace Road during all NatWest T20 Blast fixtures at a cost of £1 per ticket, and the winner takes home half of the cash prize. That amounted to £340 on Friday evening.
Please continue to support the Friends of Grace Road 50/50 raffle, as all monies raised go to the club. The winning ticket is announced over the PA system and through social media during the game.