Chairmans Announcement - LBVCC Join HEBL for 2025

A Message from the Chair of Little Bardfield Village Cricket Club

To all of our players, supporters, and friends in the wider cricketing community,

After careful consideration and a vote among our players, it is with a degree of sadness – yet also with real optimism for the future - that I share the news that Little Bardfield Village Cricket Club has withdrawn from the Two Counties Cricket Championship, effective immediately.

This decision has not been made lightly. As someone who joined this club as a young boy and has proudly played over 20 years in the Two Counties, I understand the emotional weight this carries - for myself, for the club, and for those that have represented Little Barfield over recent decades. Competing in the Two Counties has been a huge part of our story, and we've always taken pride in punching well above our weight as a small village club holding its own among much bigger clubs with far greater resources than ours.

But the truth is, the demands of the league have been slowly but surely wearing us down. The high standard of cricket and the extensive travel required have made it increasingly difficult to attract and retain new players. We've found ourselves stretched thin, not just on the field, but in trying to preserve the spirit and sustainability of the club. The joy of village cricket should be about more than the result on a Saturday - it's about community, camaraderie, and continuity. And we were in danger of losing that.

With that in mind, we're excited to announce that we will be joining the Herts and Essex Border League for the 2025 season, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to the league for accommodating us at such short notice. This move brings us closer to home and promises more accessible, enjoyable cricket—at a level that not only encourages development but also lowers the barrier to entry for those new or returning to the game. We see this as an opportunity to rebuild, reconnect, and grow, creating a club environment that welcomes new faces, nurtures local talent, and secures the future of cricket in Little Bardfield for generations to come. Our first fixture in the new league is this coming Saturday (10th May) at home so please do come down and support.

Leaving the Two Counties is undoubtedly bittersweet. We're proud of all we achieved in that competition, and grateful for the battles, friendships, and memories it gave us. But we believe that now is the right time to return to our roots, to focus on what makes village cricket special, and to ensure that Little Bardfield continues to thrive - not just survive.

If you're reading this and have ever thought about picking up a bat again, bowling a few overs, or just being part of a friendly and welcoming cricket club - we'd love to hear from you. We train on Wednesday evenings, and we're always open to new players of all ages and abilities. Whether you're a seasoned cricketer or a complete beginner, there's a place for you at Little Bardfield.

We'd also warmly welcome anyone interested in helping out off the field. Lots goes into keeping the club running, whether helping to maintain our lovely ground or lending a hand on match days; scoring, preparing teas, helping with our thriving junior section, helping secure sponsorships, or any other way that you think you may be able to connect with the club. Grassroots cricket thrives on community support, and any help, big or small, makes a real difference.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way. We hope you'll continue to do so as we enter this exciting new phase of cricket in Little Bardfield.

Yours sincerely,
Will Slemmings
Chair, Little Bardfield Village Cricket Club