Club having a ball as it hits 125 not out

It's 125 not out for members of Himley Cricket Club where they are celebrating more than a century of sporting success.

The popular club has stood the test of time and helped to launch the careers of dozens of England and county players during its 125-year history.

Well-known names such as Wall Heath-born test cricketer Jack Flavell and Worcestershire county legend Stewart Lampitt, who hails from Wolverhampton, have donned their whites at Himley.

Others include Surrey batsman Mark Frost and Brierley Hill-born Dennis Breakwell who made a name for himself playing for Somerset and Northamptonshire.

Founded in 1893, the club attracted players from both the village and surrounding communities of Wombourne, Swindon, Wall Heath, Kingswinford and Gornal.

Although games were suspended for two years during the First World War, the club continued to field sides throughout the whole of the Second World War with players who were too old for national service.

Members purchased the current Stourbridge Road ground, which had been formerly part of the Earl of Dudley estate, in 1948.

During the 70s and 80s the club had a string of successes which included reaching the final of the National Village Championship at the home of cricket – Lords in 1988.

When club stalwart Bill Simpson, who had been a member for 66 years, died in 1995 he left Himley CC a "substantial" legacy.

The cash, along with a lottery grant, was used to knock down the dilapidated clubhouse and build the current pavilion at the Stourbridge Road ground.

The club, which plays in both The Birmingham League and The Staffs Club Championship, now fields five senior sides on Saturdays and three on Sundays.

Since winning promotion into the Premier League, the club has finished no lower than fourth place and this year took the runners-up spot.

The club also has junior teams ranging from under-10s to under-17s and is proud that more than 20 of its young players are also playing cricket at district and county level.

Chairman Gordon Lewis, aged 40, has been involved with the club since he helped to keep score at the tender age of seven.

He puts the club's success down to the dedication of the members and players who have worked hard to nurture young talent. Mr Lewis, who lives in Wombourne, said: "The last 10 years have been the most successful in the club's history so the future is looking very bright for Himley Cricket Club.

"The club has definitely got what it takes to keep on going for many more years to come."