Andy Caddick wows in Topsham anniversary match

There were smiles, sixes and cider at the weekend as Topsham St. James Cricket Club celebrated its 150th anniversary with a family fun day and a 30-over match against a Lord’s Taverners XI, featuring former England and Somerset bowler Andy Caddick.

Held on Sunday 22 June, the club welcomed over 200 visitors for a day that blended cricket tradition with community celebration. Activities included a family pairs match, a junior coaching clinic with Caddick, and plenty to keep spectators entertained – from a bouncy castle and games to local food and drink stalls.

The headline event saw the Lord’s Taverners bat first, with Caddick starring in style. Coming in at number four, he hit a brilliant 101 off 90 balls, including two towering sixes. The team finished on 161 from 30 overs, after early wickets saw them wobbling at 18–2.

During the interval, spectators enjoyed a demonstration from the Devon Super 1s, a Lord’s Taverners programme supporting young people with disabilities aged 12–25.

In reply, Topsham’s side – made up of current and former players, all of whom came through the club’s youth system – fell agonisingly short. Despite strong innings from Chris Horne (48), Ross Treleaven (39 not out) and Matt Reeves (28 not out), the hosts were narrowly beaten by just four runs.

Club Chair Matthew Williams said the day had been “unforgettable”.

“It was amazing to see a Somerset legend like Andy Caddick play at our ground – and he hit one of the biggest sixes I’ve ever seen!

Sunday will live long in the memory of all who attended and in the history of our club. We set out to celebrate cricket, our community and give something back – and I think we achieved all three.”

Funds raised on the day will support both the Lord’s Taverners charity and Topsham St. James’ youth coaching programme, as part of a year-long effort to celebrate the club’s milestone and future in equal measure.