An update from our CEO

Hi all,

As we move through another busy summer of cricket, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been a fantastic month for the Lord's Taverners. Across the country, we have seen young people enjoying new opportunities, members and other friends of the charity coming together to raise vital funds, and the continued growth of our programmes, enabling the charity to make cricket the most inclusive team sport in the UK.

One of the highlights of the past month was our inaugural National Softball Cricket Finals Day. Bringing together SEND schools from across the UK, the competition showcased exactly what our charity is all about: creating opportunities for young people to participate, compete and thrive through cricket. I had the privilege of getting out to some of the Regional Finals around the country in the lead up to Finals Day and was inspired to experience how young people are growing and developing through the experiences we have created. What was most noticeable was the competitive nature, enjoyment and many of the personal stories that young people and their teachers and support staff told me about whilst we stood on the boundary watching the action. It was a fantastic insight into how impactful our programmes are for so many young people in so many different ways. 

Congratulations to Clare Mount Specialist Sports College, who were crowned our first-ever national champions after an outstanding day of cricket at Grace Road, the home of Leicestershire CCC. More importantly, every team that took part represented their school and community with enthusiasm, determination and teamwork. It was inspiring to see so many young people enjoying the game in an inclusive environment, building confidence, creating memories and learning life skills that will serve them well in their future lives.

The success of the competition is testament to the dedication of our programme staff, delivery partners, teachers and volunteers, who all work tirelessly to create meaningful opportunities for young people living with a disability. We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved and excited to see this competition continue to grow in the years ahead.

Alongside our programme activity, July has also been another exceptional month of fundraising. I'd like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who supported our recent events, including Sticky Wicket, the Matchroom Sixes and the Mike Gatting Golf Day alongside a number of regional committee organised events such as the Thames Valley Race Day hosted by our great friends at Newbury Racecourse. 

A huge thank you to the event industry who planned and delivered another hugely successful Sticky Wicket event, now in its 19th year. To long standing Taverner and incredible friend of the charity, Chairman of Matchroom Sports, Barry Hearn for sponsoring and hosting the Matchroom Sixes and to our former Tavs President Mike Gatting for his commitment making our Golf Day at Denham Golf Club the fun packed success that it was. Awareness and fundraising events such as these are about far more than the money raised. They strengthen our community, create new connections and help spread awareness of the work we do. On behalf of everyone at the charity, thank you for your continued generosity and commitment. 

Looking ahead, we are delighted to announce that following confirmation of the 2027 London Marathon becoming a two-day event, we have secured more charity places than ever before for next year’s race. Year after year, our runners demonstrate incredible dedication, raising vital funds while taking on one of the world's most iconic sporting challenges.

If you, a friend, family member or colleague have ever considered running the London Marathon, now is the perfect time to get involved. By joining Team Tavs, you'll not only be taking on a personal challenge but helping to ensure that thousands more young people can access inclusive cricket opportunities in the future.

Places are in high demand, so I would encourage anyone interested to register their interest and become part of our biggest marathon team yet.

This month also marks an important moment in the development of youth voice across our charity. I would like to warmly welcome our new cohort of Youth Ambassadors, who will help shape the future of the Lord's Taverners over the next two years.

Our Youth Ambassadors play a crucial role in ensuring that the voices and experiences of young people are heard and have influence and impact across all aspects of our organisation. Their insights help us improve our programmes, challenge our thinking and ensure we remain focused on what matters most to the young people we serve.

I would also like to offer my heartfelt thanks to the outgoing cohort of Youth Ambassadors who have recently completed their two-year term. Their contribution has been remarkable. They have represented their peers with passion, honesty and commitment, helping us strengthen our approach to youth engagement and leaving a lasting legacy for those who follow.

As always, none of this would be possible without the support of our members, donors, partners, volunteers and fundraisers. Together, we are creating opportunities for young people to discover their potential, build confidence and experience the many benefits that cricket can bring.

Thank you for being part of that journey. I look forward to sharing more updates with you next month as we continue to make cricket a game for everyone and ensure those 33,000 young people we reach are included, empowered and inspire us with the incredible outcomes that they achieve. 

Best wishes,

Mark