It's what English village life is all about - the sound of leather on willow and the community coming together to celebrate.
Keeping tabs - Sam Hennessy, James Handscombe, James Bean and Nick De'ath, under-13 Colts team members, look after the scoreboard during the match Picture: ADRIAN RUSHTON
And they certainly did that in style with the world famous MCC team turning out to mark 250 years of cricket in St Osyth
It was exactly two-and-a-half centuries to the day since the first match was staged in the village at that time courtesy of the Earl of Rochford, owner of St Osyth's historic priory.
The match was played behind the Red Lion pub.
The modern version took place on Cowley Park, adorned with marquees and the spectators who packed in to watch the action.
It was certainly a day to remember and Mark Shuttleworth, secretary of St Osyth Cricket Club, was justly proud.
"What a pleasure to welcome a team like the MCC to help us celebrate this incredibly special occasion," he said.
"A lot of people have worked very hard and supported us in our efforts and we have been blessed with perfect weather."
Barry Clayden, match manager for the MCC, was equally delighted to be involved.
"It really is a great honour for us to be here today and I could have got four teams out, such was the response in such a special match," he said.
Published Friday July 23, 2004
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