VILLAGE CRICKET THINKS OF WHAT MIGHT HAPPEN

Cricket preparations are taking place all over the country, and in Horton Kirby, Kent this has included having its own defibrillation equipment for the first time. This development has come about through a gift from the RALPHH charity.

Horton Kirby Cricket Club was founded in 1882 and today owns its own ground, containing a clubhouse that was built in 1968. It is here that the defibrillator will be kept, ready to assist in the case of a player having a heart attack or circulatory issues.

The RALPHH charity has been active in support of amateur cricket over the last year, adding to an extensive support network in many other sports. Easy to use, the defibrillator has a lengthy expectancy before any money will be necessarily spent by the Club on either replacement pads or the self-contained battery.

Horton Kirby has two Elevens that compete each summer Saturday in the Kent Village League. Friendly games are played on Sundays. The age range of Club players is between 13 and 79. They travel from as far away as Rochester, Gravesend and Bexley. It has also rebuilt its Junior section over the last two years, providing opportunities for young people between the ages of 5-14. The attractive ground also hosts Kent Disability Team matches against other counties, as does a Kent Under-14 team.

“The location is at least 10 minutes by car to the nearest A&E facilities, so a very suitable venue for RALPHH to be offering help,” said Richard Allen, Chairman of the charity. “It is good to see a club like this taking preparation for the unexpected so seriously, and we have been pleased to help them as part of the build-up to the 2026 season.” 

Receiving the defibrillator from Richard Allen is Club Chairman Darren Bull (left). They were joined in the picture by Horton Cricket Club President Mac Costen.