A CRICKET club is celebrating its 175th birthday with a range of events.

Witham Cricket Club turns 175 this year and has also marked it with its first year in the East Anglian Premier League, the highest level of club cricket.

Forming in 1847, the club is now on its way to a double century and has competed in a number of leagues and competitions throughout its time.

It has evolved throughout the years and has grown in size and stature.

Club chairman John Chick said: “Back in the day, the first team was in Division 3 and is now in the top league.

“The second team is now in Division 3 and now we have a third team and for the first time this year a fourth one, too.

“Most of the players are homegrown so it is nice to see the natural progression.”

Run by volunteers, the club is delighted to have made it to such a huge milestone and is putting on a week of events for the community to celebrate in the week beginning Monday, August 22.

On Tuesday, the players of the second and third teams take on Chelmsford-based Beaulieu Park.

On Wednesday, Witham’s first eleven will be playing a floodlit game against WSX professional cricketers, with entry £5 for non-members, starting at about 3.30pm.

On Thursday there is a floodlit interclub game starting at 3pm, which sees players of the club playing against each other for bragging rights.

On the Friday there is a floodlit Colts junior training event at 6pm. If your child would like to come along for a try out, contact wcc.colts@hotmail.com.

A normal league game is on Saturday, with Witham’s first eleven facing last year’s champions and this year’s leaders Sawston and Babraham.

On Sunday, August 28, there is a memorial match for Barrie and ex-president Margaret Keeble aiming to start at 7.30pm. On Sunday evening there is also a special celebratory dinner.

And on Monday, August 29, there is the family day event, with Kids Kwik Cricket games, a bar and barbecue.

Mr Chick added: “We just want to get as many down to support us as possible to help mark a wonderful milestone.”