The 2026 Season ended last weekend at Denton Bank with a memorable game against the runaway First Team Champions South Northumberland. The game will be remembered not for the result, but for two remarkable events. In the Hill innings Professional David Christie passed 1000 NEPL runs whilst scoring a terrific hundred – his fourth in a standout season.
At the conclusion of the SN innings, Lee Crozier walked off the field to a standing ovation for the final competitive time after a stellar career that saw him become by far the leading wicket taker in NEPL history. Perhaps more importantly he always played the game in the correct manner and earned the respect of all connected with the game on and off the field.
To keep members up to date, David Christie will not be returning to the Hill in 2027, but we were delighted to learn that he has signed a Professional Contract in First Class Cricket with Boland back in SA which was a clear goal for David. The Club has sent him home with enhanced DIY skills - the freshly painted white bollards in the Car Park being his masterpiece.
On the Professional front those responsible for recruitment of players have moved quickly to secure the services of Sri Lankan Roshan Lakmal in 2027. Roshan is an experienced all-rounder who bowls slow left arm spin and he has considerable UK experience which will stand him in good stead. He also has a strong coaching pedigree which will help in the development of our players young and old.
2026 was most disappointing at First Team Level and we find ourselves in Division Two of a new NEPL structure that encompasses three divisions of ten teams. However, it is encouraging that there is a clear determination to bounce straight back much as the Club did two seasons ago. This will not be an easy task but there is much talent at all levels of the Club and our facilities on and off the field are certainly up to the standard.
I am delighted to inform the Membership that Mark Charlton the man who does more work than anyone else to ensure the Ground looks a picture has signed a new contract for 2027 and we anticipate that he will again be supported by Geoff and John Chambers on a part time basis.
There have been a couple of changes to the Governance of the Club as a result of the recent General Committee meeting which I should also report was extremely well attended. Firstly, Bill Smalley has decided to stand down as a Director of the Club but will remain as a member of the General Committee. I will pay due tribute to one of the true Benwell Hill legends on another occasion but in the meantime, I must thank Bill for his invaluable support during my time as Chairman.
One legend out brings another legend in as Philip Nicholson has agreed to join the Board henceforth. Philip is the current Head of Senior Cricket at BHCC and will bring his professional skills to bear as the Club moves towards a fresh start in the coming months.
I will leave it to the various leaders within the Club to report in due course on their seasons. From the Chairman`s point of view I enjoyed watching the progress made by a host of our younger players. I watched a great deal of second team cricket and Messrs Jones; Dawson and Fletcher are to be highly commended on the 2nd team results. Equally, Messrs Pounder and Walder should be congratulated on a positive third team season – Newbrough is a lovely ground, and it is great that they are again prepared to host our games in 2027. I thoroughly recommend a visit.
Junior Cricket at BHCC remains one of the Jewels in our Crown. Barry Pearson does an incredible amount each year on behalf of BHCC and he is supported by a team of committed coaches who create the correct atmosphere for young players to improve whilst keeping results and the game in perspective. Thank you to all concerned.
I was astonished to read on the Club's social media sites that BHCC ladies have already embarked on their indoor league commitments. I probably should not have been surprised as the enthusiasm engendered by Amy Chapman and co has been one of the undoubted highlights of the summer. Mark Wright, Scott Williamson and Barry Pearson have provided strong back up and it is clear that the only way is up in 2027.
The business of the Club continues to thrive led by Philip Haves and the team of Professional staff. We are keen to develop the upstairs room as a meeting place so please do not be shy if you can help in any way? To be honest that plea for help applies to all elements of BHCC.
The Squash Court refurbishment has been a great success, and Martin Avery is leading from the front as ever.
I will close with a final memory of 2026 – the revival of the Presidents Day was captured perfectly on camera by Martin Avery and it was wonderful to see so many past players turning out at Denton Bank.
Cricket Clubs are fundamentally about people and we are incredibly lucky to have so many volunteers who continue to work hard to create opportunities to play sport and enjoy excellent social facilities in our oasis in the West End of Newcastle Upon Tyne.
Simon Lunn
BHCC Chairman
Email: Simon.lunn@live.co.uk
Mobile: 07791 683827
