I visited Barrow Cricket Club on a Tuesday evening in April and found the ground buzzing with activity. Dozens of energetic boys - and a sprinkling of girls - were deep in training sessions, guided by a team of very dedicated coaches.

Steve Grew and Heath Pedrola kindly took a break to chat with me about the incredible growth of children’s cricket in Barrow since Covid. It’s non-stop! On Tuesdays, three age groups - the Under 11s, Under 13s, and Under 15s all train together. Wednesdays the Under 17s and Under 19s train with the senior teams. Then on Friday evenings, the youngest groups take over: early summer sees 60 lively 5- to 7-year-olds in the All-Stars programme, followed later in the summer by the Dynamos for 7- to 10-year-olds.

Each group is coached by a dedicated team, including qualified 17- and 18-year-olds who have come up through Barrow’s own junior ranks. All coaches receive formal training and accreditation through the England and Leicestershire Cricket Boards, highlighting the Club’s serious commitment to developing future talent.

Although girls are still under-represented in local cricket, the Club recently built new changing facilities specifically for girls and women and is actively working to encourage more girls to join.

Barrow Cricket Club also has a thriving social side. The club is determined to continue to support the hugely successful Friday evenings, where cricket becomes a real community event. With All Stars and Dynamos training and Under 11s league games being played, the ground fllls with children, parents, family, and friends. From 5.30 to 8.30 pm, there’s a BBQ, a bar, and a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere - perfect for young families looking for a fun evening out. Everyone is welcome, whether they’re cricket fans or not.

The Club’s positive, welcoming environment clearly inspires its young players who are highly motivated and fully engaged. It’s no surprise that Barrow’s junior teams have enjoyed outstanding success: over the past five seasons, the Under 11s and Under 13s have secured multiple County titles, including both the Cup and League Championships. During this time, 18 Barrow players have gone on to achieve County honours - a fantastic achievement.

There’s plenty for adult players too. The club and bar are open every weekend, with two senior teams competing in the Leicestershire & Rutland Cricket League on Saturdays, and a Sunday team playing in the Grantham & Melton League.

Congratulations to Barrow Cricket Club on everything you’ve achieved so far - and from Barrow Voice, we wish you all the best for 2025!

Judith Rodgers