A group of Old Bedfordians, parents, grandparents, former staff and friends of the School enjoyed a memorable day at Northamptonshire CCC on Sunday 21st May. In glorious weather, they watched the tourists open the batting in this fifty over match. By lunchtime, they had scored 275 for 7, but the hosts bravely fought back in the afternoon sun and the excitement grew as the spectators realised how close the final stages of the match could be. Sadly, in the 47th over, Northamptonshire were all out for 262, missing out by only 13 runs.
Despite our local side narrowly losing, a good day was had by all. The School/OB Club party had the use of some lovely facilities and were made to feel very welcome by everybody at the Wantage Road ground. It was particularly kind of the President of Northamptonshire CCC, Lord Naseby (50-55) and Ian Peck (65-76) who is on the Committee, along with Chairman, current parent, Gavin Warren, to come and personally welcome the group. It was interesting to hear a bit about the history of the Club, and the plans for the future. The Club played their first match at the ground in 1886 and we are very proud that over the years a number of Old Bedfordians have represented Northamptonshire.
Unfortunately Alex Wakeley (96-07) the Captain was not playing due to injury, but it was good to see that one OB, James Kettleborough (00-11), was in the Northamptonshire team. This did mean though that Alex had more time to chat to all those present. We were pleased to hear that he thought that Bedford School played an important part in shaping him for his future; as Captain both on the field of play and in the changing rooms, along with his wider responsibilities.
Thank you to all those who made the day such a success. We would hope to do something similar in the future. Good luck to the Steelbacks for the rest of the season.