Cricket was first played in Eardisland between 1860 and 1872 when the school master (Mr Leigh) introduced the game into the school. However, in 1863 the Clowes family arrived in Burton Court and shortly afterward the Burton Court Cricket Club was founded. The field in which the pavilion and pitch were sited became known as the Cricket Meadow.
The first matches were thought to have been played in 1866. The team was made up of members of the Clowes family and those who worked on their estate. The school teacher usually played. A score book of the 1870s shows that matches were played against local villages, but also as far afield as Malvern and at Hampton Court, the home of the Arkwright family.
The Club thrived until the outbreak of the Second World War, when the original ground was ploughed up. It revived (as Eardisland Cricket Club) for the first time in the 1950s and again in the 1960s. The ground moved to at least three different sites within the village. In 1996 the Oral History Group, having uncovered much of the history of the Club, decided to play a match on the original field among interested parishioners, to celebrate 130 years of cricket in the village. This was so successful that it was repeated the following year and in 1998 it was decided to re-establish the Club with friendly fixtures against local clubs. At the same time,the annual fixture played between teams representing the President and the History Group (now that of the Club Captain) continues to be played, together with a Kwik Cricket Tounamant involving 6 local primary schools.
The Club is fortunate to have a beautiful ground provided by a local farmer and a very active committee. This ensures that the ground is well looked after and it's facilities maintained. The White Swan provides opportunities for convivial gatherings for players and spectators after matches. The membership fee remains the lowest in the County. Enquires to the secretary or Fixture Secretary, for membership, playing opportunities and fixtures are welcome.
The Club is very keen to attract new members, regardless of skill. We are a small friendly Club which will always give the opportunity to those wanting to play, even on an occasional basis.
Contact
Claire Price (Secretary)
01544 388309