Geoffrey Boycott supports Maltby Cricket Club’s 80 years

The Maltby Cricket Club, in Stockton, is celebrating eight decades since its post-war reformation in 1946.

As part of the celebrations Middlesbrough and a Darlington double promotion footballer Gary Gill, owner of the Chadwick’s Inn Maltby restaurant, met Sir Geoffrey alongside Maltby Cricket Club Chairman Chris Francis.

In a show of support, Sir Geoffrey has signed a number of club shirts that will be auctioned to raise funds during the anniversary celebrations.

Sir Geoffrey said: “It was lovely to meet Gary and Chris and it is clear they both have a great passion for cricket and for Maltby Cricket Club.

“As President of Scarborough Cricket Club, I see first-hand the pressures many local clubs are under and the challenges they face in maintaining facilities, attracting volunteers and encouraging the next generation to become involved in the game.

“Times are tough for many local cricket clubs and I sincerely wish Maltby Cricket Club every success in the world.

“Reaching an 80th anniversary is a fantastic achievement and a wonderful milestone for everyone connected with the club.

“It is a time to reflect on the club’s proud history, celebrate the people who have helped build it and bring the community together to help secure its future.

“Let’s hope the people of Maltby get down to the ground this summer and support the club.

“Community backing is vital and I wish everyone associated with the club all the very best for the future.

“It’s fantastic that Gary Gill is supporting the club and hopefully more will follow.”

Mr Gill said: “Maltby Cricket Club has been a huge part of the local community for generations and everyone connected with Chadwick’s is proud to support the club as it celebrates this wonderful 80th anniversary.

“We were honoured that Sir Geoffrey took the time to meet us and pass on his good wishes.

“He remains one of the biggest names the game has ever produced and his support means a great deal to everybody connected with the club.

“The shirts he signed will help us raise valuable funds and hopefully encourage even more people to get behind the club.

“Local cricket clubs are at the heart of their communities and it is important that we all do our bit to support them.

“We would love to see as many people as possible come along to the celebrations, enjoy the cricket and help ensure the club continues to flourish for many years to come.”

The club, which competes in the North Yorkshire & South Durham Cricket League, says the anniversary is as much about the future as it is the past.

Chairman Chris Francis said: “Having someone of Sir Geoffrey’s stature supporting our 80th anniversary celebrations means a great deal to everyone connected with the club.

“We are extremely grateful for his kind and supportive words and generosity in signing the shirts, which will help us raise important funds and raise awareness for us.

“Gary instigated our meet with Sir Geoffrey and for that we are very grateful.

“This anniversary is a celebration of the club’s proud heritage, but it is also about ensuring Maltby Cricket Club continues to thrive for future generations.

“We hope the local community will join us in marking this special occasion and supporting the club throughout the season.”

The club was reformed in 1946, making 2026 its 80th year since the post-war era.

The signed shirts will be auctioned as part of Maltby Cricket Club’s anniversary events, with proceeds helping to support the club.