A COMMUNITY Cricket Club has bowled over, thanks to the generosity of Essex Freemasons including the Cross Keys Community Fund (CKCF), The Cricket Lodge of Essex and the Orsett Masonic Centre among many other sponsors.

Orsett and Thurrock Cricket Club (O&TCC) at School Lane, Orsett, will have many colourful seasons thanks to the shirt sponsorship of three of their popular youth teams.

The well-respected local club have long been an advocate of engaging with the Community, and one of its core values is inclusivity. They believe that cricket should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. At Orsett & Thurrock CC, they actively encourage players of all genders, ethnicities, and abilities to be part of the community cricketing family, and firmly believe that diversity brings strength and enriches the cricketing experience.

They host many school competitions and coaching sessions for primary and secondary age groups, and outreach work in the schools themselves through the "Chance to Shine" programme.

The club now manages over 20 Teams from U6 to Senior Teams including seven girls and womens teams of various age groups, and encourage locals schools and community groups to engage in the sport irrespective of the level of expertise.

CKCF Chairman David Barton commented: "The commitment to the cCommunity as well as the club ethos, fits perfectly with the four key principles of Freemasonry - Integrity, friendship, respect and service.

"We are proud to support such a fantastic local group, and wish them every success"

A cricket family fun day will be held on Sunday, 25 August and O&TCC invite all the local community to attend.

A presentation evening will follow the annual fun events, including the always popular 'Kids vs Parents' matches and is also sponsored by the three Masonic groups involved.