C&C Backed Cricket Sporting Lunch, Hits It Out The Park

Alderley Edge Cricket Club once again played host to a spectacular Sporting Lunch, and likewise, we were once again proud to lend our name to the occasion. Local, regional, and national businesses gathered to network in style, enjoying what proved to be a truly rewarding and memorable day.

After early uncertainty, the weather came good, sunshine won the toss, so creating the perfect backdrop for the drinks reception on the Pavilion lawn.

This year’s event drew an incredible 350 guests – an increase of over 100 from last year – who filled the marquee and were left in no doubt as to who was backing the day. From screens and banners to menus and auction lists, the C&C brand was proudly displayed throughout and is now firmly established as synonymous with the event.

The afternoon was expertly compered by former Lancashire and England cricketer Paul Allott, who not only kept things moving but had the audience entertained from start to finish.
A brilliant line-up of sporting guests joined him: ex-England and Derbyshire cricketer Johnny “Animal” Morris, and former England & British Lions fly-half Toby Flood. Paul also hosted captivating conversations with the world’s all-time leading Test wicket-taker, Sir Jimmy Anderson and the irrepressible David “Bumble” Lloyd, former England Cricket Head Coach and now legendary broadcaster. As ever, Bumble had the audience in stitches with stories we definitely can’t publish!

A highlight of the afternoon was the return of speed artist Dave Sharp, who stunned the audience once again, this time painting a striking portrait of Jimmy Anderson in under 10 minutes. Even Jimmy had to admit, “Now that’s fast!”

In keeping with the cricketing theme, this year’s fundraising supported the Bob Willis Fund in aid of prostate cancer. David Willis, brother of the late Bob Willis, spoke movingly about the cause, and we were thrilled to help raise over £12,000 for the charity, which is an incredible achievement in itself.

C&C was well represented, with Malc, Tom O’Connell, Paul Trafford, and Corran Barnes hosting clients and insurance colleagues across two tables, making the most of the day’s connections and conversations.

A huge thank-you to Nick Hamilton and Jess Allwright from InConnection, who once again delivered an event that ran like clockwork. Special thanks also to the Alderley Edge Cricket Club catering team, who served an exceptional lunch to the 350 guests with impressive finesse.

Reflecting on the day, Malc said:
“Last year was superb, but this year was simply exceptional. The organisation, delivery, and catering were off the scale, and it was clear the audience were loving every minute. The entertainment was perfectly judged, and the mix of stage and roving mic interviews kept it fresh and engaging throughout. The exposure for C&C was also spot-on, particularly with both our Commercial and Private Clients in mind. A truly wonderful day.”

Once again, it’s fair to say, everyone was bowled over!