Ashmanhaugh and Barton Wanderers cricketers mark 'legendary' season

Ashmanhaugh and Barton Wanderers CC, which is based in Barton Turf and Ashmanhaugh, won an inaugural Voneus Village Cup Community Legends Award ahead of four other finalists from across the country. 

Ashmanhaugh and Barton Wanderers CC are celebrating an amazing 2023 season (Image: Supplied)

The club also reached the quarter-finals of the National Village Cup in the first year it entered, and saw an influx of new players which means should be able to form a fourth senior team in 2024.

Jayne Everett, a club volunteer, said everyone was proud of how far they had come this season.

Ashmanhaugh and Barton Wanderers CC are celebrating an amazing 2023 season (Image: Supplied)

She said: “We are a club running entirely on volunteers, help from villagers and support from local businesses - we are extremely grateful to all those involved.

“This year our first 11 were promoted to the Lacons Norfolk Alliance Premier League, and have held the number one spot for the majority of the season. 

“They're a very young team the core of whom have played together, at the same club, since they were young.”

The team’s clubhouse is used by the parish council and the local bowls club. The outfield is enjoyed by joggers and dog walkers alike.

Ms Everett added: “Over the years we have invested heavily in our youth section, several of whom now make up our first 11. 

“With the help of our chairman, we have negotiated a very long lease on both grounds to ensure our future in the two villages."

Several club members will attend the village cup final at Lords cricket ground in London on September 3. 

The tickets were part of the prize for the legends award, along with £500 for an end-of-season party. 

The club has been in existence since 2012, after a merger of the rival village clubs of Ashmanhaugh and Norwich and Coltishall Wanderers.