The idea was initially as a result of two sad losses last year. A work colleague’s husband, Paul Robertson, sadly lost his brave fight with cancer late last year. Diane, his wife, is the PA to our Managing Director at Oakwood homes and is a good friend to many staff and other company directors who have known her for many years.

Bob Thompson, who played cricket at Chestfield and also made a huge contribution to maintaining the ground to such a high standard, has also been sadly missed by all associated with the club since he passed away early in 2006.

Both Paul and Bob were superbly looked after by the Pilgrim’s Hospices in Margate and Canterbury respectively, so it seemed only fitting that this worthy charity should be the beneficiary of this event.

Having determined the cause, I then turned my attention to an event that I would not only be able to participate in, but one that would capture a lot of interest in order to raise a significant sum of money for the charity to help them continue their superb work.

I have, from a very young age, enjoyed playing cricket, having played at Chestfield from around the age of 11, and my children now also play there, I thought a charity cricket match played at Chestfield would be a good idea, especially given Bob Thompson’s involvement at the club! But it couldn’t be just any old cricket match. It had to be a challenge! So I thought why not tie it in with a World Record attempt. I contacted The Guinness World Record people, to discover that the current record stands at 33.5 hours, held by an Australian team – which added to the appeal! Bingo I thought! Why don’t Oakwood homes challenge Chestfield Cricket Club to a marathon match!

I was very fortunate while playing cricket both at school and in adult life to meet many generous and helpful people that I have now been able to enlist in helping get this ideal off the ground.

My first port of call was Chestfield Cricket Club Chairman, Graham George to ascertain if I could secure the use of the ground and facilities for such an event.

Secondly I sought the help of a very good friend, school mate and fellow Chestfield player who went on to play professionally for Kent, captain Leicestershire and finish his career at Durham and also represent England – Vince Wells.

Both Graham and Vince have been extremely supportive. Their help and advice have been invaluable in getting this idea off the ground, for which I will always be grateful!

There will be other associated events leading up to and possibly following this match, from providing professional cricket coaching for young children, to sporting memorabilia raffles, prize draws and a possible auction – so watch this space!

So, whether you have an interest in cricket, or have, like so many others, known someone who has been affected by cancer or other terminal illnesses, we would love to see you at Chestfield Cricket Club, giving your support to all those participating over the weekend of 8th and 9th September in order to make this a memorable event and raise as much as we can for this extremely worthwhile cause.