An update from our CEO

Hi all,

As we move further into autumn, it has been another very busy and positive month for everyone across the Taverners family, with fantastic news for our programmes, opportunities to celebrate the achievements of our participants and some key fundraising activity. It has also been a time to reflect on the people who have helped shape our charity and look ahead to a busy festive season.

One of the highlights was announcing the renewal of our award-winning partnership with Berkeley Foundation, with a further £600,000 committed over the next three years to support Super 1s and our SEND schools programme. Berkeley Foundation has supported our disability cricket work for more than a decade, with its total investment now exceeding £3 million. This continued commitment is a huge boost and will help us provide more young people with disabilities access to regular, free and inclusive cricket, while developing their confidence, independence and friendships. My sincere thanks to everyone at Berkeley Foundation for their continued belief in what we do.

We also celebrated some truly inspiring stories at our Impact Awards evening at the Kia Oval on 6 October. Congratulations to Prajith, Millie, Kennet School and Maha, and to the Ian Martin Award for Inclusion in Cricket winner, Barry, whose achievements demonstrate the difference our programmes can make for so many. From finding confidence and friendship through cricket to becoming role models and inspiring others in their communities, each winner embodies our values of include, empower and inspire. It was a privilege to recognise their journeys and celebrate the dedication of the families, teachers, coaches and volunteers who support them on a great night where we were joined by over 200 guests including members, regional chairs, staff, Trustees, supporters and partners as well as a number of our programme participants and their families. 

Away from our programmes, I would like to thank everyone involved in the recent P&M/Kingspan corporate golf event in Spain, particularly our generous supporters who led the event, CEO's Tony Wall and Phil Smith. Fundraising events like this are vital to helping us sustain and develop our work, while bringing together people who share our commitment to giving young people the opportunity to fulfil their potential. Over £20,000 is coming to the Taverners from the event. 

This month was also a time to reflect and pay respects to one of the Taverners own. I was honoured to be invited to attend the great Judith Chalmers’ memorial on behalf of the charity by her family to pay tribute to her life. Judy was such an inspirational character within the rich history of our charity, and it was a privilege to remember her vast contributions and the incredible impact she built across the Tavs family for so many years. So many Tavs members and friends of the charity were present on the day as her husband Neil (or 'Durders as he is known to so many) and her children Mark and Emma, together with Judy's grandchildren, were joined by hundreds of people there to celebrate Judy's amazing life. She is already sorely missed, having passed away in May, and we are all so thankful and grateful for having her in our lives. I am sure I speak for everyone when I say we all remain hugely grateful to Judy for giving her time, energy and commitment to the charity over many years. Our thoughts and condolences go to Neil, Mark, Emma, all of the grandchildren and to all of those close to Judy.

Looking ahead, our regional teams have a fantastic programme of winter and Christmas fundraisers planned, from festive lunches and race days to other special events around the country. These occasions are a wonderful way to catch up with fellow members, welcome new supporters and enjoy some great company, all while raising vital funds for our work.

I hope many of you will be able to join us at one or more of these events over the coming weeks. Every ticket purchased, raffle ticket bought and auction bid made helps us invest in our programmes and create more opportunities for young people facing the challenges of inequality.

You can buy tickets for our upcoming events here.

Thank you, as always, for your continued generosity and commitment. Together, we can ensure more young people have the chance to feel included, build confidence and discover what they can achieve through cricket.

Best wishes,

Mark