A cricket tournament at The Fortfield is not just about the sport, it’s also about benefitting the community and businesses.
The annual three-day NCCA fixture, part of Devon CCC's Community Links Initiative, has been supporting charities since 2016, drawing in tourists and influencing the economy positively.
County Cricket has been a fixture at The Fortfield, the home of Sidmouth CC, for over a century.
Its picturesque setting against the backdrop of the sea and Jurassic Coast cliffs attracts tourists and cricket enthusiasts alike.
Once the fixtures are announced in spring, hotel and self-catering accommodations see a surge in reservations.
It's undeniable that these County matches benefit not just Sidmouth Cricket, Tennis, and Croquet Club, the host venue, but also the town and associated charities.
In 2016, Devon CCC launched a souvenir brochure to raise the county side's profile.
The initial 32-page edition has since expanded to an impressive 80 pages, thanks to loyal advertisers and newcomers from around Devon.
The brochure is entirely free of charge.
Its popularity likely means a jump from a 1,500 copies print-run to 2,000 next year.
A charity raffle for the Sidmouth Hospice at Home takes place alongside the matches with volunteers handling ticket sales and literature distribution.
The cricket tournament itself, while important, is not everything.
This year's match was, however, a credit to NCCA, with both Devon and Cheshire believing they could snatch victory.
Unfortunately, bad light followed by rain brought an abrupt end to the match at 6pm.
Despite this interruption, cricket fans are eagerly looking forward to the final fixture.
Matches occurring simultaneously, specifically the Cheshire v Cornwall game, will decide if Devon maintains its North West Division 1 status.
County cricket at The Fortfield is about more than just the game; it's a community event that brings people together for a good cause.
Whether it's through the brochure, supporting businesses, or the charity raffle, this annual fixture means more than just cricket to Sidmouth.
Indeed, the game is enriched by the combined effort of players, volunteers, supporters, and local businesses, making it an eagerly anticipated event in the annual calendar.
From hotel bookings shooting up to residents turning out to support the games, the cricket matches at The Fortfield are a true celebration of the area's community spirit.
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